RCMP says B.C. ostrich farm investigations continue, charges neither laid nor stayed

The RCMP's investigation into a British Columbia farm continues after the culling of over 300 ostriches due to avian influenza. The Supreme Court of Canada declined to hear the farmers' case, leading to the cull on November 6, executed by professional marksmen as ordered by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. In a Facebook video, Katie Pasitney, daughter of co-owner Karen Espersen, claimed that charges against them had been dropped and that they would not appear in court this week. However, RCMP Staff Sgt. Kris Clark clarified that no charges have been laid or stayed, and original court appearances have lapsed, with new court documents to be issued later.

The pair were arrested in September for allegedly obstructing CFIA officials during the cull process and were released under conditions. Despite their release, Pasitney stated that the family is ready to continue fighting for changes in the CFIA's approach to avian influenza management. The family faces ongoing struggles in the aftermath of the cull, highlighting the emotional toll of the event. This situation raises broader questions about the management of animal diseases and the rights of farmers in such crises.