Loudoun Investigates Illegal Slaughter Of Cow

ALDIE, VA — Loudoun County investigators are looking into the illegal slaughter of a cow that occurred in Aldie a few days before Christmas. The female cow was discovered slaughtered in the owner's pasture, in the area of Howsers Branch Road, and was identified by an ear tag, the county said Friday in a news release.

Investigators believe the illegal slaughter occurred between 10 p.m. on Dec. 21 and 6 a.m. on Dec. 22. Loudoun County Animal Services, with assistance from the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office, is investigating the illegal slaughter, which could lead to charges of animal cruelty, trespassing and larceny.

When Loudoun County animal control officers arrived on the scene, they found the cow missing its right front leg, both back legs from the hip joints, and a strip of back muscle. Officers also discovered an opening on the cow's right shoulder, consistent with an injury from a crossbow-type firearm, according to the news release.

Evidence was collected from the scene and is being processed, the county said. Anyone with information regarding the illegal slaughter is asked to call 703-777-0406. Callers may remain anonymous.