Athens-Clarke County Police are investigating the discovery carcasses of goats, pigeons, chickens, and a small pig were all found decaying in bags in the woods near an apartment complex off Cedar Shoals Drive on Athens’ east side. So far, no arrests in what police investigators say is likely a case of animal abuse.
From WSB TV…
The carcasses of goats, pigeons, chickens and a small pig were all found decaying in bags in the woods near an Athens apartment complex on Saturday, police said.
“It was very bizarre and disgusting,” said resident Kathleen McGovern.
Neighbors of the complex said they couldn’t stand the foul smell coming from the woods and when they looked closely, they made a frightening discovery.
McGovern showed Reagan the woods near her apartment where she spotted black trash bags tossed to the ground.
Each holding a dark secret...the rotting remains of decapitated and dismembered animals.
“Why are you dumping them where people clearly live?, McGovern asked. I don’t know if there’s disease, or flu going around, It’s disturbing on any level.”
Athens Police officers responded and found approximately 1-3 carcasses in each of the 20-plus bags they found. They found decapitated pigeons and chickens in the bags. They believe the remains were dumped over a period of several months, perhaps years.
“I don’t have a reason, perhaps it could be some ritual. I don’t why they dispose of these things properly,” McGovern said.
A fringe religion from the Caribbean and Africa believes animal sacrifices can help cleanse evil. Instances and evidence of this ritual are showing up more frequently in metro Atlanta. But, those who’ve seen what would be the outcome of this ritual, said it’s revolting.
“I think there’s animal cruelty here, in which case it’s really disturbing,” said McGovern
Police said their investigation is ongoing. They have not made an arrest in connection with this suspected animal abuse.