California County Settles Goat Seizure Lawsuit

Shasta County has agreed to pay a $300,000 settlement to the family of a girl whose pet goat Cedar was seized and slaughtered, following a protracted legal battle. The ordeal began when Cedar was entered into a junior livestock auction, but the girl and her family attempted to withdraw him, leading to a conflict with fair officials. Despite the family's offer to compensate the buyer, deputies seized Cedar under a search warrant, transporting him across counties before the goat was butchered. The case has raised questions about the use of law enforcement in civil disputes and the priorities of animal welfare programs. Despite the settlement, which allocates $65,000 to the child and $200,000 to the family, the details of Cedar's butchering remain unclear, and litigation continues against other entities involved. The situation has highlighted the emotional bonds formed by children in agricultural programs and the legal complexities surrounding such cases.