by A Pennsylvania man has been indicted for allegedly participating in a disturbing online network that financed and distributed graphic videos of monkey torture. According to federal authorities, the case involves 11 individuals across the U.S. and a minor in Indonesia.
The U.S. Department of Justice says the suspects are charged with conspiracy to create and distribute so-called “animal crush videos,” which depicted acts of extreme violence and sexual abuse against monkeys.
What Happened
Hugh T. Campbell of Delaware County, Pennsylvania, was arrested in connection with a federal investigation into a group allegedly dedicated to the abuse and mutilation of monkeys.
The group is accused of coordinating and funding the production of disturbing videos in which monkeys were burned, cut, and sexually assaulted.
Key Details
- The indictment names 11 individuals across multiple states.
- The alleged organizer, Nicholas Dryden of Cincinnati, reportedly arranged for a minor in Indonesia to commit the acts on video.
- Campbell allegedly made four CashApp payments in 2023 totaling $405 to support the production and distribution of the videos.
- A total of 79 overt acts were cited in the indictment.
- Each defendant could face up to 5 years in federal prison if convicted.
Charged Individuals:
| Name | Alias | State |
|---|---|---|
| Ernest D. Chavez | Lax | Arizona |
| Hugh T. Campbell | Tim Templeton | Pennsylvania |
| Carter G. Fawcett | Captain | Colorado |
| Brady O. Shellhammer | Beglu / Bbbeglu | Louisiana |
| Jimmy Wong | Yasser Lopez | New York |
| Kimberly A. Anglin | Kim Anglin | Connecticut |
| Mark M. Sampieri | The Chef / SainT | Connecticut |
| Victoria S. Haskins | Cat Face / Sparkles Fancy Pants | Louisiana |
| Vance H. Beadles | Mr. Green | Kentucky |
| Mary L. Longoria | R6 / R6ex | North Carolina |
| Patrick C. Naylor | YANTF / YANTF 2x | North Carolina |
Reactions or Statements
The Department of Justice condemned the group’s actions as “depraved and criminal.”
Animal rights advocates have expressed outrage, calling for stronger laws and international cooperation to prevent similar abuses in the future.
Investigation or What’s Next
The case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Office of Law Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Prosecutors are continuing to build their case, and trials for the defendants are expected in the coming months.
FAQs
What are animal crush videos?
Animal crush videos depict intentional acts of cruelty, often for fetishistic or profit-driven purposes. These are illegal under U.S. law.
What charges are the defendants facing?
They are charged with conspiracy to create and distribute animal crush videos—a federal offense with penalties of up to five years in prison.
How was the abuse carried out?
According to the indictment, a minor in Indonesia was paid to perform the abusive acts on video as instructed by the conspirators.
Who is leading the investigation?
The FBI and USFWS Office of Law Enforcement are jointly investigating the case.
What happens next?
The defendants will appear in federal court. If convicted, they will face sentencing based on their individual involvement.
Summary / Final Takeaway
The indictment of Hugh T. Campbell and 10 others across the U.S. shines a spotlight on a horrific form of animal abuse facilitated through digital platforms.
Federal authorities are cracking down on this disturbing underworld, and the case is a grim reminder of the need for vigilance, stronger regulation, and international cooperation in the fight against animal cruelty.
