A Manchester resident, Lynn Seymour, 51, has been arrested following an indictment that charges her with distributing animal crush videos and conspiracy. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan.
Seymour is accused of acting as an administrator for private online groups that had hundreds of members. These groups allegedly exchanged and distributed videos depicting the torture, killing, mutilation, and sexual abuse of animals, specifically targeting both baby and adult monkeys.
The distribution charge carries a maximum sentence of seven years in prison, while the conspiracy charge can result in up to five years. Both offenses may also lead to supervised release for up to three years and fines reaching $250,000. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge according to federal guidelines and statutes.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau is handling the prosecution.
“The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law,” according to the press release.
