Headless Chicken Investigation Continues

Town still investigating six headless chickens--March 22, 2008

Greenwich Animal Control officers are investigating six beheaded chickens found behind a Mason Street bank Thursday afternoon, considering whether the birds were killed as part of a religious ritual, Greenwich Police Lt. Richard Cochran said Friday.

Over the years Greenwich Police officers have collected dismembered carcasses of chickens and other animals that appeared to be ritually killed, Cochran said.

The killings also could be a disturbed individual's idea of a prank, Cochran said.

"Whether it was linked to Holy Week or some other event we're not sure," Cochran said. "It could also just be a stupid prank."

The perpetrators could face animal cruelty charges, Cochran said, which under state law is a felony that can carry up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine, depending on the circumstances.

The chickens were found by passersby under a tall hedge in the parking lot behind Putnam Trust Bank at 10 Mason St. Thursday afternoon.

Cochran said police checked security cameras on the property, but the devices did not record the area where the animals were left.

"Anybody with information about this should call us," Cochran said.

Residents with information about the chickens should call the Animal Control Division at 622-8299.

--Martin B. Cassidy

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