Locker Plant LLC: Non-Compliance to Humane Livestock Handling in 2024 (USDA)

313.16(a)(1)

HATS Category VIII - Stunning Effectiveness On March 8, 2024, at approximately 0730 hours while performing humane handling verification activities at Est. 8565, I REDACTED observed the following Noncompliance. The Establishment moved a Herford beef cow into the stun box for stunning with a 22-magnum rifle. When the Stunner said, 'Fire in the Hole', I left the slaughter floor to listen from an adjacent concrete-walled room. I heard the first shot but instead of hearing the animal fall to the ground, as is customary after shooting, I instead heard the stunner say wait. I looked around the corner and observed the animal still standing calmly. After moving back to my secure location, I very quickly I heard a second gunshot and heard the animal go down and then a security stun, then an all clear from the Stunner signaling that stunning was complete. All the gunshots occurred within a matter of a few seconds. I stepped out from behind the wall and confirmed that the animal was insensible. Examination of the skull revealed 3 holes in the forehead of the animal, one placed approximately 2 inches lower than the others. This observation, combined with what we heard after the first shot, confirmed that the first stunning attempt did not affect immediate unconsciousness. Mr. REDACTED Plant Owner, was notified of the Noncompliance and the establishment’s failure to adhere to the regulatory requirements of 9 CFR 313.16(a)(1).”