Francisco Javier Ravelo, a Florida resident and U.S. citizen, pleaded guilty on March 2 to distributing videos that depicted the physical and sexual torture of monkeys, according to a statement released on Mar. 16. He could face up to seven years in prison for these crimes.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), which worked with HSI New Orleans, HSI Pensacola, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Department of Justice’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. Authorities said Ravelo personally distributed more than 40 animal crushing videos to others.
“Homeland Security Investigations pieced together the case that led to Ravelo’s guilty plea,” said ICE Director Todd M. Lyons. “He personally distributed more than 40 animal crushing videos to other people, but he didn’t count on HSI being able to track him down, pull together evidence and present it to the judge. Now he knows better. I hope this serves as a warning to others who acquire or distribute this kind of content: HSI will find you, and you’ll end up in federal court just like Ravelo did.”
Court documents show that Ravelo created and managed online chat groups focused on sharing and discussing violent and sexual videos involving monkeys being tortured.
Officials encourage anyone with information about similar crimes or suspicious activity to report it by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or using the online tip form.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to address crimes involving animal cruelty distributed over digital platforms.
