Pigs killed during ranch robbery

Burglars broke into the tack room of a ranch just north of Camarillo on March 9 and stole approximately $1,800 in saddles and other riding gear, according to Ventura County Sheriff's Department officials.

Police believe the burglars also stabbed two pigs, weighing about 400 pounds each, killing one and severely injuring another during the robbery on the 60acre property located between the top of West Highland Drive in the unincorporated area north of Camarillo and the 1600 block of Los Angeles Avenue in Somis.

One of the deputies who responded to the burglary was asked by the ranch owner to shoot the injured pig and end "its obvious suffering," according to reports.

Senior Dep. Julie Novak, a spokesperson with the Camarillo Police Department, said the owner purchased the pigs for about $300 apiece. Novak said, however, that they had since grown, and she was unsure as to their current market value.

Police said the investigation is ongoing and are asking anyone with information regarding burglary and animal slayings to call (805) 388-5100.

- Daniel Wolowicz