From NRV News, May 29, 2024
Virginia Tech has been fined $18,950 by federal regulators after a national watchdog filed Official Complaints against the laboratory for animal abuse and breaking federal law.
SAEN, a national research watchdog that monitors U.S. research facilities
for illegal activity and animal abuse, said the fine involved at least seven
extensive violations of the Animal Welfare Act between February 4, 2021, and
July 5, 2023.
Repetitive instances of improper animal handling, inadequate animal care and
use decisions, and unqualified personnel resulted in the deaths and
suffering of many animals at the laboratory, charged SAEN.
“Allowing animals to suffer unnecessarily and die is inexcusable,” said
Stacey Ellison, SAEN research analyst, who added, “Virginia Tech deserves
every penny of this fine, and more.”