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Teen Charged with Felony for Poisoning Rival’s Show Goat in Texas

A Texas teenager has been charged with a felony after allegedly killing a competitor’s show goat. The incident, which occurred a few months ago, has garnered significant attention due to its unsettling nature.

According to an arrest affidavit, 17-year-old Aubrey Vanlandingham, who competes in livestock shows with her own goat, reportedly confessed to poisoning a goat named Willy, owned by a younger competitor. CBS Austin has detailed the allegations surrounding the case.

Authorities allege that Vanlandingham utilized a drench gun to administer a toxic pesticide to Willy inside the barn at Vista Ridge High School on October 23. The incident was captured on security footage, showing the distressed goat attempting to escape the situation.

Witnesses report that Vanlandingham was seen leaving the goat and later returned multiple times over a two-hour span before contacting the rival competitor’s mother to express concern for Willy’s health. Tragically, the goat succumbed to exposure within 24 hours, displaying symptoms such as convulsions and respiratory distress.

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The consequences of Vanlandingham’s alleged actions are severe, as Willy’s death was attributed to organophosphate intoxication from phosmet, a pesticide typically used for controlling external parasites in livestock.

The owner’s mother shared her feelings with DailyMail, indicating that Vanlandingham showed no signs of remorse. “It’s all bizarre. We want justice served; we don’t want a slap on the wrist. We want to make sure that she is punished,” she stated, adding that they seek accountability and intervention for Vanlandingham.

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Further investigation into Vanlandingham’s phone records reportedly revealed searches for lethal doses of bleach, poisoning techniques, and how to clear her search history, raising concerns about premeditated intent. The mother of the 15-year-old rival rejected claims of cheating, asserting that the motives were rooted in jealousy rather than competitive dishonesty. “You can’t even cheat when it comes to showing goats,” she remarked, highlighting the senselessness of the alleged jealousy.

As a result of these allegations, Vanlandingham has been charged with cruelty to livestock animals, a serious felony in Texas that could result in a prison sentence of up to two years. She was taken into custody on November 22 and subsequently released on a $5,000 bond. A court hearing is scheduled for January 15.

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