Man Sought In Palos Verdes Peninsula Peacock Killing

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles asked for the public's help Tuesday in identifying a man who authorities suspect killed a peacock in the Palos Verdes Peninsula area.

According to officials, a witness reported an incident that occurred July 9 around 8:20 p.m. in the 27000 block of Eastvale Road.

The witness said the driver of a silver four-door Mercedes-Benz vehicle fired a pellet gun at a peacock standing in a driveway, which collapsed and died as a result of its injuries, officials said.

The man is described by officials as a white with a receding gray hairline, 50 to 60 years of age, wearing a white shirt and "Aviator"-style sunglasses.

According humane officers, 52 peafowl have been found dead or injured since June 2012 in Rolling Hills Estates, which prompted an investigation.

Officials said the investigation found some of the peafowl deaths to be accidental, yet some were intentionally killed by pellet guns, rifles, crossbows and slingshots.

SPCA officials said the consequences of taking malicious action against any wild or domesticated animal can include felony animal cruelty charges, leading to imprisonment for up to three years and $20,000 in fines.

Anyone with information about this crime is urged to contact Animal Protection Services at (323) 730-5300.