Authorities in Philadelphia executed a search warrant and discovered at least 500 dead animals, thought to be the victims of a Santeria religious ritual. The vast majority of animals were common farm creatures like chickens and goats, but two primates were recovered as well. SPCA officials were originally tipped off because of two emaciated dogs spotted on the property.
Inside the home, investegators discovered guns, knives and an altar, complete with candles.
You may be surprised to learn that Santeria rituals are legal under the Supreme Court, as long as the sacrifice is performed in a humane manner. That is the issue authorities are currently trying to determine.
Bengal said that the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that rituals of Santeria — a religion similar to voodoo and originated in Cuba and Brazil — are permitted under the Constitution. But he believes these animals may not have been sacrificed humanely. If that is the case, the home’s owner could be prosecuted, he said.
“It’s a gray area … a fine line,” Bengal said.
The home’s owner hasn’t been seen for eight months but is believed to be in Mexico, Bengal said. A woman living at the home was last seen there five days ago and is believed to still be in the Philadelphia area, Bengal said.
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