Los Banos, CA (September 23, 2025) — A 28-year-old Los Banos resident, identified by authorities as Salvador Vargas, was arrested on animal cruelty after surveillance video allegedly showed a dairy employee abusing a cow at a facility in the 20100 block of Copa De Ora Avenue in the Los Banos area according to the Merced County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies and county animal services officers responded Sunday, September 21 to investigate a report of abuse. A camera system reportedly recorded the employee whipping and shocking the cow, forcing a water hose into the animal’s throat more than 50 times, and striking the animal with a gate while in the cattle shoot on several occasions. The cow was moved to a medical barn for observation, authorities said. As of publication, officials have not released a medical update on the animal’s condition.
How to share tips or information
Anyone with information related to this incident may contact the Merced County Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at (209) 385-7547 or email [email protected]. For animal-welfare concerns or follow-up, Merced County Animal Services can be reached at (209) 385-7436.
