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PGA Golfer Charged with Cruelty for Killing Hawk

by Sandy Mitchell on March 7th, 2008

Veteran golfer and PGA Tour member, Tripp Isenhour was charged with cruelty to animals on Wednesday, stemming from an incident in December where he allegedly got upset at a red-shouldered hawk making noise during the taping of his TV show, “Shoot Like a Pro.” According to the court documents, Isenhour began hitting balls at the bird and eventually one drive struck and killed the creature.

Isenhour issued an apology via the PGA yesterday. It read:

“As soon as this happened, I was mortified and extremely upset and continue to be upset. I want to let everyone know there was neither any malice nor deliberate intent whatsoever to hit or harm the hawk. I was trying to simply scare it into flying away. As evidenced by our family having adopted three cats from a local shelter, I am an animal lover. We ask that everyone accept my sincerest apology, and please be respectful of my family’s privacy.”

I find it curious that he didn’t feel the need to comment on the situation until he was charged. I also find it appalling that, by several accounts, none of the 15-person crew tried to stop Isenhour from aiming at the hawk.

The charges carry a maximum penalty of 14 months in prison and a $1500 fine.

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