Sign: Kerra’s Shooting Was Filmed — A Federal Raid Exposed Widespread Cruelty At Breeding Operation

Published: January 26, 2026 at 10:50 PM Author: Animal Welfare Investigative Writer & Petition Author

Hopkins County, Texas – Authorities opened an animal cruelty investigation following the release of a video that allegedly shows 50-year-old Kristine Hicks tying up a black German Shepherd named Kerra and shooting the dog multiple times. Hicks, who owns and operates a breeding operation at her 80-acre Giant German Shepherd Ranch in Hopkins County, claims the video shows a “mercy killing” because Kerra had a large tumor, but a former employee has a different story.

Megan Sprinkle, the former employee who recorded Kerra’s death, tells CBS News the dog was killed because she could no longer breed, adding:

“During my employment, I witnessed and documented extreme neglect, unethical practices, and criminal acts involving dogs. On the property, there were 27 deceased dogs documented since August 1st alone, all in varying stages of decomposition.”

Federal authorities, including the FBI and agents with the Department of Justice, raided Hicks’ property and dozens of German shepherds were seized. Big Dog Ranch Rescue, who helped with the January 9 rescue effort, said conditions at the property were “shocking.”

Lauree Simmons, the founder of Big Dog Ranch Rescue said, “This is probably one of the most horrific cases I’ve seen in a breeder and this breeder has been running under the radar.”

Hicks is currently facing one animal cruelty charge and one charge for possession of marijuana. More charges are expected. Please add your name to the petition to hold Kristine Hicks accountable for the treatment of the German shepherds at her breeding operation.

Animal Victory will push for:

• A full and thorough investigation into all allegations connected to this breeding operation

• Kristine Hicks to be permanently banned from owning, residing with, or working with animals

Warning: Graphic and heartbreaking video footage of Kerra’s killing below.

Decision Makers:

• Hopkins County District Attorney, Will Ramsay
• Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
• Federal Bureau of Investigation
• U.S. Department of Justice
• U.S. Attorney’s Office – Eastern District of Texas

WHY THIS PETITION MATTERS: 

We, the undersigned, demand that Kristine Hicks be held accountable for the inhumane killing of the German shepherd named Kerra, and the dozens of other dogs whose remains were found on her property. We also demand that Hicks be permanently banned from owning, residing with, or working with animals.

This petition is based on information from law enforcement and public officials. Details may change as investigations proceed, and updates will be made upon verified documentation. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Some images may be illustrative when real photos are unavailable or restricted. Our priority is accuracy, responsibility, and the dignity of the animals involved.

Note: Dogs seized from the Giant German Shepherd Ranch went to various rescue groups and shelters, including Big Dog Rescue Ranch in Florida, and the SPCA of Texas.

This petition is based on information from police and public officials. Details may change as investigations continue. If charges are modified, dropped, or expunged, Animal Victory will update upon verified documentation. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Some images are illustrative when real photos are unavailable, restricted, or cannot be legally used. Our priority is accuracy, responsibility, and protecting the dignity of the animals involved.

News

CBS News

CBS 12

Dallas Morning News

Lawyers’ Statement