Teens Face Animal Cruelty Charges In Llama Killing Case

TRINIDAD, Colo. (CBS4) – Three teens accused of killing a llama in Trinidad and are now facing animal cruelty charges.

The death of Sally the llama has some Coloradans outraged.

"It's absolutely an atrocity," said Dr. Justin Rosenberg from Alameda East Veterinary Hospital.

Three teens were arrested on Tuesday and are not only accused of killing the llama but also posting pictures of it on Facebook.

"They need to learn that what they performed in animal cruelty is not acceptable to the general public," said Trinidad resident George Gibbins.

On April 16 Sally escaped from her owner's Trinidad home. She was seen wandering across the campus at Trinidad State Junior College.

On Friday the animal was killed near the campus, and soon afterwards Facebook pictures appeared showing the three teens posing with Sally's dead body along with the caption "we are open for hire."

Trinidad police says Sally died after being shot with an arrow, and that her throat was slit by 18-year-old Cody Kissman.

"I do hope justice is served and the animal is represented in the proper fashion," said Rosenberg.

Rosenberg says animal abuse is a common problem and many times the abusers don't stop there and progress to humans.

The charge of aggravated animal cruelty carries a sentence of up to 18 months in jail and an up to $100,000 fine.

Rosenberg says true justice for Sally may require some changes.

"We need to set an example and change legislation to make sure this doesn't keep occurring in the future," said Rosenberg.

Of the three charged in the case one is 18 and the two others are 17. A fourth person may also be charged.