Local Cheerleader Accused of Poisoning Rival’s Show Goat Is Barred From Caring For Her Pets On Her Own

Local Cheerleader Accused of Poisoning Rival’s Show Goat Is Barred From Caring For Her Pets On Her Own

Texas Cheerleader Accused of Poisoning Rival’s Show Goat Faces Strict Pet Care Restrictions

A troubling case from Texas has captured national attention as a 17-year-old cheerleader faces accusations of poisoning a competitor’s show goat.

Aubrey Vanlandingham, the teen at the center of the case, has been ordered to have no unsupervised contact with her own pets—a cat, dog, and rabbit—while she awaits trial at home.

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A Shocking Confession

Vanlandingham admitted to poisoning 6-month-old Willy the goat, claiming she targeted the animal because its owner was a “cheater.” According to a probable cause affidavit, she told police, “I don’t like cheaters.”

The alleged incident, which occurred on October 23, led to her arrest on a felony charge of cruelty to a livestock animal. She was later released on a $5,000 bond.

Court-Imposed Restrictions

As part of her bond conditions, Vanlandingham is prohibited from interacting with or contacting the goat’s family. She is allowed to care for her own pets only under the supervision of an adult.

Additionally, she must submit to regular drug testing.

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Surveillance Footage Reveals Disturbing Actions

Court documents detail surveillance footage from Vista Ridge High School’s barn, showing Vanlandingham forcing a pesticide-laced liquid into Willy’s throat using a syringe-like device. The goat struggled to escape her grip.

Over the next two hours, she reportedly checked on Willy twice, called the goat’s owner’s mother to report the animal was “acting funny,” and sent a video of the goat convulsing to her competitor.

Tragically, Willy died the following day in his owner’s arms. A necropsy later revealed the cause of death to be organophosphate intoxication, caused by phosmet—a pesticide commonly used for livestock parasite control.

A search of Vanlandingham’s phone uncovered alarming search queries, including “How much bleach can kill an animal” and “Poisoning pets, what you should know.”

A Prominent Student With a Troubling Accusation

Both Vanlandingham and the goat’s owner were members of Vista Ridge’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) program. Vanlandingham, a cheerleader and recently elected FFA president, was known for showcasing her own goat, Lacey, at competitions statewide. Prosecutors allege she poisoned Willy to secure her own victory at an upcoming event.

Image Credit from YouTube video

Calls for Justice

The goat’s owner’s mother expressed her heartbreak and frustration, emphasizing the need for accountability. “We want justice served. We don’t want a slap on the wrist. She needs to take ownership for what she’s done,” she told reporters.

Vanlandingham’s attorney stated that the family is working to address the allegations, thanking the judicial process for providing an opportunity to share their side of the story.

Legal Consequences

Vanlandingham’s next court hearing, originally scheduled for this week, has been delayed until March. If convicted, she faces up to two years in prison or a $10,000 fine under Texas law.

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