Little Colorado Meats (Mobile Slaughter Unit): Non-Compliance to Humane Livestock Handling in 2025 (USDA)

313.16(a)(1),313.16(a)(3)

HATS Category V111: Stunning Effectiveness 9 CFR 313.16(a)(1) and 9 CFR 313.16(a)(3) On October 24, 2024, at approximately 9:55 a.m. I, CSI REDACTED observed an ineffective stun. The incident occurred when a steer was loaded into the knock box and Mr. REDACTED, Slaughter Supervisor proceeded to aim and then fire his 20 gauge into the head of the animal. REDACTED, Plant Employee and I walked forward toward Mr. REDACTED and the knock box. I observed that the shot went through the left eye and into the skull of the steer. The steer had raised up onto his knees into a low sitting position with his head raised and facing forward. Mr. REDACTED, quickly ordered us to go back behind the barrier so he could shoot the steer again. We did so and the second shot was administered and was effective. I called Dr. REDACTED, District Veterinary Specialist and my Frontline, Ms. REDACTED. Dr. REDACTED instructed me to write an NR. I left a voice message for Ms. REDACTED since she was unavailable at the time that I called and filled her in on the occurrence. She returned my call later that day and we discussed what happened in more detail. Mr. REDACTED did take immediate corrective action by quickly shooting the steer again. This plant does have a Robust Systematic Robust Approach to Humane Handling. I did inform Mr. REDACTED of my discussion with Dr. REDACTED and that a noncompliance would be written. This is a noncompliance with 313.16(a)(1) and 9 CFR 313.16(a)(3).