Ocean City, Md. – Animal rights organization PETA is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of five individuals involved in the abuse of koi fish in a privately owned pond. The incident took place on the 10th block of 77th Street on Saturday, July 1, at around 2:47 a.m.
According to the police, the suspects climbed over a fence to access the pond and were caught on security camera footage mistreating the koi fish. The video shows the men taking the fish from the pond, throwing them, slamming at least one onto the ground, using a shovel in the pond, and recording themselves with the fish.
The suspects are described as five males between the ages of 18 and 25, with specific physical attributes and clothing mentioned for each.
PETA condemns the actions of these individuals and emphasizes that fish can experience pain and fear, just like other animals. The organization urges anyone with information to come forward and assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
The police are currently investigating the incident but have no leads yet. Anyone who can identify any of the suspects in the video is requested to contact PFC E. Rhode at erhode@oceancitymd.gov or the Ocean City Police Department at 410-723-6610. Anonymous tips can also be provided by calling 410-520-5136 or through electronic submission at https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/police/crime-tips, referencing case number 2023-00-2813.