Community rallies after 1,500 mink released in Franklin County farm break-in
FRANKLIN, Idaho (KIFI) — After intruders broke into a family-owned farm in Franklin County early Saturday morning and released nearly 1,500 mink, farm owner Jeff Hobbs says the majority of the animals have either returned or been recovered with the help of the local community.
The intruders broke into a single barn holding approximately 1,800 mink just north of the Utah-Idaho border. A security camera installed on the facility captured at least one masked suspect.
By the time the Hobbs family managed to resecure the barn, only about 300 mink remained inside.
However, community members quickly rallied to assist the family in recovering the missing animals.
"Got the situation contained for the most part," said Hobbs. "100 people showed up to help; 80 percent were gathered up by noon."
"Our family has been farming for four generations, and it is heartbreaking to see animals suffer and die because of these actions," said Hobbs wife. "But in the middle of such a difficult day, our community showed up for us. Nearly 100 people came together to help rescue these animals, and we are incredibly grateful for the kindness and support we've received."
Despite the massive community effort, many of the mink did not survive. Several were struck by vehicles on nearby roads, while others died from heat and lack of water.
"These animals depend on us for food, water, and care," said the Hobbs. "What kind of person turns more than a thousand animals loose knowing they could be run over, starve, or die from dehydration? There is nothing humane about that. The people who did this are responsible for the suffering and deaths of these animals."
The Hobbs family is now focused on caring for the recovered mink, though Hobbs noted that several animals are suffering from health issues caused by stress and exposure.
"Those responsible for this attack are terrorists, plain and simple," said Challis Hobbs the Executive Director of Fur Commission USA. "The federal Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act (AETA) treats qualifying attacks intended to damage or interfere with animal enterprises as federal terrorism offenses."
No group has taken credit for the release, and no arrests have been made. But the Hobbs family says they are coordinating closely with investigators on potential leads, after obtaining additional footage of a possible suspect vehicle.
The Franklin County Sheriff's Office is urging residents to remain on the lookout for remaining mink.
If you spot a mink, FCSO urges you to report the sighting by calling Franklin County Dispatch at 208-852-1234 (ext. 2) with the location and any helpful details.
