The Cass County North Dakota State’s Attorney’s office is looking into a USDA report alleging inhumane treatment of a cow at the North Dakota State University Meat Laboratory. The Cass County State’s Attorney says he’s reviewing the incident,and will determine what action they’ll take and then proceed with appropriate steps. North Dakota Farmers Union President Mark Watne says it’s unfortunate this has surfaced and that it’s not common for the way most producers treat their animals.

He says the investigation needs to run its course before any conclusions are reached.

Watne says it’s also unfortunate that it was the PETA group, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals that called for the USDA and State’s Attorneys office to investigate given that group’s anti agriculture agenda.

In their report, the USDA noted what was observed at the NDSU Meat Laboratory was an egregious violation of humane handling requirements.