Juveniles detained in mass killing of pigeons in Sumter plant

The Sumter Police Department is holding two juveniles in connection with a break-in and the killing of hundreds of pigeons at the Sumter Palmetto Pigeon Plant.

Sumter law enforcement has detained the minors with the malicious killing of approximately 1,100 birds at the plant. The break-ins occurred on two separate occasions, May 30 and June 8, where hundreds of pigeons were clubbed and beaten and some were beheaded. The pigeons were valued at $22,000. The Palmetto Pigeon Plant is one of the world’s largest producers of squab, cornish game hens and silkie chickens.

In a statement issued by the Sumter Police Department, the juveniles, whose ages range from 11 to 12, will be petitioned to family court for the charge of Malicious Injury to Animals.

The investigation is ongoing and law enforcement is looking for more juveniles who may have been involved.