It is not a catch your own bacon event. It is catch and release.
Via KCCI
Police said they will monitor a Wisconsin church’s pig wrestling event after thousands of people expressed concern for animal rights, reported WISN-TV.
The event, part of St. Patrick Parish’s 44th annual Roundup Days, will be held this weekend.
More than 42,000 people have signed an online petition calling for the cancellation of the Pig Rassle in Stephensville.
The petition was posted by an animal advocacy organization in Watertown. It says the pigs are mistreated and the event qualifies as illegal animal fighting.
The parish website states “Consideration is taken to ensure that the pigs are safe and free from abuse. After consultation with local authorities, it has been determined that there is no illegality associated with this event. St. Patrick Parish does not condone animal abuse.”
Despite the parish’s statement, Deacon Ken Bilgrien said calls from opponents have been numerous.
“It’s basically put our parish out of business because our phones and emails are down,” he said.
Capt. Mike Jobe of the Outagamie County Sheriff’s Department said he doesn’t expect a large protest at the event Sunday, but deputies will step in if needed. He agreed that the long-standing event hosted by St. Patrick Parish is not illegal.