Donald's Meat Processing, LLC: Non-Compliance to Humane Livestock Handling in 2025 Q2 (USDA)

313.16(a)(1)

On Thursday, February 27th, 2025, at approximately 1:30pm, while performing HATS category VIII, stunning effectiveness, and category IX, consciousness on the rail, of a directed Livestock Humane Handling Task in response to an enforcement action, IIC REDACTED observed the following noncompliance. REDACTED, kill floor supervisor, moved a sow into the knock box. Once the animal was in the knock box, Mr. REDACTED restrained the sow using the squeeze chute and extender to minimize the movement of the sow. Mr. REDACTED waited for the sow to become stationary to allow for the correct stunning placement. Mr. REDACTED took a shot with the .22 Magnum rifle. The sow squealed and remained standing. Mr. REDACTED immediately reloaded the same .22 magnum and took a second shot. The second attempt was successful, and the sow dropped and was rolled out of the knock box. Mr. REDACTED and Humane Handling Coordinator REDACTED checked for signs of consciousness. Mr. REDACTED proceeded to stick the sow with a knife to bleed out. The animal remained unconscious through the sticking, shackling, and bleeding process. IIC REDACTED asked Mrs. REDACTED if the first attempt contacted the sow. Mrs. REDACTED consulted with Mr. REDACTED exactly the reason for the two shots. Mr. REDACTED stated the sow moved her head as he went to shoot, causing the incorrect stunning placement. Per their humane handling program, reloading the same weapon was the appropriate corrective action for an ineffective stun due to incorrect placement. IIC REDACTED called SPHV REDACTED at approximately 1:51pm regarding the ineffective stun. After discussing the incident, it was determined that an NR was the appropriate action and SPHV REDACTED would notify Raleigh DVMS REDACTED. The establishment is currently operating under a consent order and has a detailed written slaughter and humane handling SOP. REDACTED, kill floor supervisor, and REDACTED, plant manager and Humane Handling Coordinator were both verbally notified of this noncompliance.