Piglet killers could face jail after national outrage

Animal rights charities and groups have said that 2 youths, aged 19 & 22, who crushed 79 piglets to death in January should go to prison.

The animals were killed after the suspects trapped the young animals and jumped onto them. The pair filmed their behaviour, and shared it via social media and by instant messaging.

The suspects are also facing a fine of nearly €5000 in damages to cover the losses incurred by the farm. At present they face a suspended sentence of 1 year and 18 months, as prison sentences under 1 year do not usually result in being sent to custody, however there is significant outrage over the deaths of the animals which may mean that the 2, if found guilty, will end up behind bars.