This Mule lost its life today at the hands of the appointed individuals who are here to protect animals! For those who are unaware SRC has an active and longstanding contract with Philip Hayes ( Livestock Officer) to pick up animals in which the county seizes and that are strays. 

Today SRCSO was notified of a stray mule off of Deaton Bridge Rd. here in Santa Rosa County. The contracted Livestock Officer, Philip Hayes showed up( which he does not do often) to assist this mule, without a lead rope, halter or trailer. This right here indicated that he had no intention on catching/trailering that mule to safety.

The Deputy on scene called to get the go ahead to shoot and kill the mule, who has been confined on a private property at that time. He was no longer out , wasn't posing a threat to people or himself and at the time was not injured to the point of needing to be shot.

The first shot fired from the " Livestock Officers" gun , shot the mule in the leg, thus causing serious injury. The second shot was the kill shot. The " Livestock Officer" does NOT have the legal authority to shoot a firearm to an animal . 

ILLEGAL, UNETHICAL and UNACCEPTABLE!

It is confirmed with both SRCSO and Animal services that Philip Hayes ( Livestock Officer) was the individual who shot the mule

How many of these animals have to die before there is a change? We can't fight this battle alone! We need the communities support. 

These animals have no rights or voices . Let us use ours to protect them and bring them justice.