Morgantown man accused of shooting goats near property

MORGANTOWN, Ky. – A Morgantown man is charged with animal cruelty after allegedly shooting several goals.

According to a uniform citation, on Thursday, 44-year-old Bennie Neal of Morgantown “knowingly and unlawfully discharged a firearm with the intent to strike the victim’s goats.”

The Butler County Sheriff’s Office says the victim stated his goats were across the driveway from Neal’s property when Neal shot a gun four times.

Authorities say three goats were struck, one of which had to be euthanized on scene. Deputies say the other two animals may survive with medical care.

According to deputies, Neal stated he shot the animals due to them damaging his property several times.

Authorities say during a search, they located multiple hidden firearms on site.

Neal is charged with first-degree criminal mischief, second-degree cruelty to animals and tampering with physical evidence.