LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Richmond man’s sinister secret has been exposed, and now he’ll face the consequences. Kendall Hacker, 32, has been sentenced to 30 months in prison for his role in a conspiracy to create and distribute animal crush videos.
Animal crushing, a heinous crime, involves intentionally subjecting animals to serious bodily harm or death. This can include crushing, burning, drowning, suffocating, impaling, or other forms of torture. In Hacker’s case, he sent money to online group chats to fund the creation of these disturbing videos.
According to his plea agreement, Hacker sent funds through online payment applications to co-conspirators outside the United States between November 4, 2021, and June 21, 2022. These funds were used to create animal crush videos, including one depicting a juvenile monkey being tortured with a jar of ants and sexually assaulted with an object that caused the monkey’s death.
Hacker’s possession of these videos on his phone served as evidence of his involvement in the conspiracy. Under federal law, he must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years.
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), with Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Greenfield prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States. Paul McCaffrey, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Rana Saoud, Special Agent in Charge of HSI, jointly announced the sentence.
Hacker’s crimes have sparked outrage and concern for animal welfare. This case serves as a reminder that those who engage in animal cruelty will be held accountable for their actions. As the investigation continues, it is essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of animals and the communities affected by these heinous crimes.
The case against Kendall Hacker is a prime example of the importance of vigilant law enforcement and the need for continued efforts to combat animal cruelty. By working together, we can create a safer and more compassionate world for all living beings.
Defendant:
Kendall Hacker
Criminal Charges:
Conspiracy to Create and Distribute Animal Crush Videos
City and State:
Richmond, Kentucky
Sentence:
30 months in prison, with 85 percent to be served
Investigation:
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)
Prosecution:
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Greenfield
Related Federal Cases
- Joseph Howe, Assaulting Law Enforcement Officers, Kentucky 2021 · District of Columbia
- Barry Saturday, Assault on Law Enforcement, Kentucky 2021 · District of Columbia
- Laura Steele, Seditious Conspiracy, Ohio 2021 · Kentucky
- Ranjit Wahi, Prescription Opioid Conspiracy, KY, 2023 · Kentucky
- Mark Duane Fuston, Conspiracy to Commit Arson, Vancouver WA, 2003 · Kentucky
Key Facts
- State: Kentucky
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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