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Series of violent attacks on Moreno Valley burros prompts county probe and new sheriffliaison
Summary
After repeated reports of brutal attacks on wild burros (beheadings, maulings), Riverside County Animal Services took the lead on investigations. The sheriff’s office assigned a lieutenant as a local liaison and the city is exploring additional state-level protections and outreach.
City leaders and residents raised alarm at multiple violent incidents against the community’s population of wild burros (donkeys), including shootings, maulings and at least one case described by witnesses as a decapitation.
Riverside County Animal Services has assumed lead investigative responsibility because many attacks occurred in unincorporated county land bordering the city. At a town-hall meeting convened in late March, residents and local nonprofits pressed for faster follow‑up and clearer investigative updates; residents also asked for a public reward for information.
The sheriff’s office has named a lieutenant as a liaison to Donkey Land and local burro advocates; the lieutenant’s role will be to triage reports and route serious criminal allegations to law enforcement while directing animal-welfare calls to county Animal Services. City Manager Brian Mohan said the city will continue to coordinate with county and regional partners and is exploring state-level policy options to strengthen legal protections for the animals.
Next steps: County Animal Services will continue investigations and the city said it would work with state legislators on potential legislative remedies and improved enforcement pathways.
