Inhumane Slaughter Investigation Underway In Riverside County

PERRIS, CA — A halal ranch in Perris is facing a federal investigation into allegations of inhumane animal slaughter and selling uninspected meat, following a complaint filed by an animal advocacy group, The Press-Enterprise reported this week.

The probe into Shahnawaz Ranch stems from a June 26 complaint filed with the U.S. Department of Agriculture by Animal Outlook. The nonprofit animal advocacy group alleges the ranch violated the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the Humane Methods of Slaughter Act.

Undercover video recorded by Animal Outlook reportedly shows men chasing goats, dragging them into a slaughter area, and wrestling them to the ground before cutting their throats in the method of halal slaughter.

Halal is a type of ritual slaughter observed by Muslims.

In a declaration submitted to the USDA, veterinarian James Reynolds stated the footage showed animals remaining conscious for minutes after their throats were cut, with workers appearing to begin skinning one animal while it was still alive. Reynolds also cited numerous unsanitary conditions, including carcasses exposed to dust and flies, according to The Press-Enterprise report.

The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service confirmed it launched an investigation after receiving the allegations July 15, according the news outlet. Federal regulations require animals slaughtered under religious practices, including halal methods, to be handled humanely and protected from unnecessary distress.

Separate from the federal inquiry, Riverside County Code Enforcement issued a cease-and-desist order against the ranch on July 18, according to The Press-Enterprise. Officials reported that an unpermitted restaurant was operating on the 20-acre property on Gustin Road.

Ranch operator and SoCal Meat Co. owner Rafi Khan told The Press-Enterprise he has temporarily halted operations and is working with county officials to secure necessary permits.

Read the full Press-Enterprise report.