Based on videotape and photographic evidence and necropsies of starved hens supplied by Pasado's Safe Haven, Keith Amberson owner of Amberson Egg Farm, will be the first egg farmer in Washington State history charged with animal cruelty for starving his hens to death.

The Snohomish County Prosecuting Attorney's Office today stated that Second Degree Animal Cruelty Charges were filed (first degree requires proof of intentional harm) against the Lake Stevens egg farmer who allowed thousands of chickens to starve to death. 1000 chickens were rescued by Pasado's Safe Haven in Monroe, Washington, which conducted the investigation. Nearly 125 of the hens died after rescue, 250 were placed with Humane Farming Association in California and 250 with Farm Sanctuary in Orland, CA. The remaining hens will live out their lives in peace at Pasado's Safe Haven.

The charges against Keith Amberson carry a maximum fine of one year in jail and up to a $5000 fine. Arraignment of Amberson will be June 21, 2000.

See history of story at www.pasadosafehaven.org

Previous UPC Alerts:
• 4/23/2000: Amberson Egg Farm Hen Rescue Update
• 4/12/99: Action Alert - Amberson Farm Hens Need Your Help
• 3/5/99: Action Alert - Keith Amberson Starved 50,000 Hens to Death!

United Poultry Concerns. June 6, 2000