A French court has sentenced a 19‑year‑old Afghan man to 30 months in prison for sexually abusing sheep and goats near Marseille, directing the authorities to deport the offender upon completion of his term.
The assaults occurred between February and April this year at an animal shelter. Staff noticed animals with tied legs, injuries, and signs of trauma.
A veterinarian later confirmed sexual abuse. The shelter owner, Cassandra Sortino, described the animals as terrified and wounded.
Surveillance cameras captured the suspect entering the shelter multiple times. He was arrested while in a compromising situation with a goat.
DNA evidence and mobile phone data linked him to the crimes. At least five goats and one six‑month‑old lamb were assaulted; one goat later died from its injuries.
During the one‑hour hearing, the accused denied the charges, claiming he was a “normal person.”
