Cape Coral, FL - Officials believe the bodies of a wild pig and beheaded chickens dumped behind the sign of a gated South Florida community are linked to a religious sacrifice.
According to police, an officer with the Florida Wildlife Commission responded to the scene of a Cape Coral community to remove the animal carcasses, which investigators believe is linked to Santeria, a religion that uses livestock in sacrificial ceremonies.
Police say dumping animal remains instead of burning or burying them at least two feet underground is a second-degree misdemeanor.
FWC confirmed it is investigating and does not believe this to be a case of Animal Cruelty.
A Waste Pro truck arrived shortly after FWC responded to pick up the remains.
FWC released a statement regarding the discovery of the animals, stating “the FWC takes these reports very seriously and encourages the public to report any sightings or any information regarding this incident to the FWC by calling the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward.”