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NYT features story of two wandering cows that have divided a rural town

NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT

New York, NY, July 30, 2024: In a story that has captivated the small town of Newfane, NY, two cows, Blackee and Hornee, wandered away from their farm one summer day and ended up in an unexpected place—a local animal sanctuary. The New York Times recently featured this tale, highlighting the ensuing drama that has embroiled the community in a legal and ethical debate.

Blackee, a black cow, and Hornee, a golden brown steer with stubby horns, managed to escape from their owner, Scott Gregson. They crossed a field and a road, eventually finding themselves in the yard of Tracy Murphy, the owner of Asha’s Farm Sanctuary. Murphy, who rescues livestock from slaughter and promotes veganism, found the cows and herded them into a pen, notifying the local animal control agency the next morning.

However, when Gregson requested the return of his cows, Murphy refused. On legal advice, she demanded proof of ownership and $2,500 to cover the cost of caring for the cows during their stay. Alternatively, she suggested that her sanctuary could purchase the cows, reports NYT.

The dispute has since spiraled into a two-year legal battle, inspiring death threats, protests, and a court case that continues to divide the town. The case has attracted attention from media outlets, including Fox News, and even caught the eye of actor Joaquin Phoenix, known for his outspoken veganism.

Before founding Asha’s Farm Sanctuary, Murphy lived in Cheektowaga, a Buffalo suburb, and worked in banking. Her perspective on animals changed in 2004 after seeing a billboard depicting a caged beagle used for product testing. This led her to research animal abuse, and she was particularly moved by the plight of cows in slaughterhouses. In January 2013, she bought 27 acres in Newfane and began her sanctuary, starting with a $50 calf named Albert.

The sanctuary was named in honor of Asha, Murphy’s beloved canine companion, whose name means “life.” After Asha died of cancer at 11 years old, Murphy sought more meaning in her life. Witnessing the heartless and abusive treatment of animals at auction houses prompted her to sell her comfortable suburban home, quit her job, and found Asha’s Farm Sanctuary. Murphy wanted to expose the cruelty of farming animals and give people a chance to see that these animals are no different from pets like dogs and cats. Asha also means “hope,” symbolizing the sanctuary’s mission to give life and hope for a compassionate world.

Gregson, a New York State trooper, moved to Newfane around the same time. He intended to raise livestock on his property, including Blackee and Hornee. When his cows went missing, Gregson visited the sanctuary to retrieve them, leading to a tense confrontation. Despite presenting receipts proving ownership, Murphy refused to return the cows. She took to Facebook Live, claiming her civil rights were being violated and shared Gregson’s home address, which led to threats against his family.

The town of Newfane largely sided with Gregson, resulting in protests and harassment against Murphy. Men cooked steaks near her property, taunting her veganism, and someone even rode a motorcycle through her yard. Murphy received threats, and five state troopers eventually arrested her for grand larceny. The case has seen numerous twists, including involvement from prominent animal-rights activist Wayne Hsiung, and a decrease in charges to petit larceny.

Despite the animosity, Blackee and Hornee were eventually retrieved by Gregson and sold. They were later slaughtered. The incident has left a lasting impact on Newfane, with signs supporting local farmers and condemning theft still visible around town. The legal battle continues, with Murphy facing up to a year in jail if convicted. Her trial is set for October, marking the next chapter in this complex and contentious saga.

Cover image for representation only.

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