Tech fined for animal abuse

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.

See full details here.

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.”