A ringleader in a global monkey torture network exposed by the BBC has been charged by US federal prosecutors.

Michael Macartney, 50, who went by the alias “Torture King”, was charged in Virginia with conspiracy to create and distribute animal-crushing videos.

Mr Macartney was one of three key distributors identified by the BBC Eye team during a year-long investigation into sadistic monkey torture groups.

Two women have also been charged in the UK following the investigation.

Warning: This article contains disturbing content

Mr Macartney, a former motorcycle gang member who previously spent time in prison, ran several chat groups for monkey torture enthusiasts from around the world on the encrypted messaging app Telegram.

  • aidan@lemmy.world
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    7 months ago

    Definitely disagree. It’s disgusting, but something being disgusting to me doesn’t make it wrong. And honestly, I eat pork, so I don’t think I really have a leg to stand on with criticizing the torture of intelligent animals

    • chetradley@lemmy.world
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      7 months ago

      Out of curiosity, have you personally looked into how pigs (especially factory farmed) are raised and slaughtered?

        • chetradley@lemmy.world
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          7 months ago

          Sadly not. If you’re interested in cutting back support for these industries, I’d be happy to throw you some recommendations for alternatives. Just let me know what country you’re in and what you like to eat!