EL DORADO SPRINGS, Mo. • Prosecutors say three southwest Missouri students stole and severely beat five farm animals and then left them to die on a high school softball field.

The students at El Dorado Springs High School are accused of beating four goats and one piglet. A school maintenance worker found the animals on the field Dec. 28. Two of the goats were dead and one had to be euthanized. The piglet and one goat survived.

Police Chief Jarrod Schiereck says officers had not determined from where the animals were stolen.

A 17-year-old and two 18-year-old students are charged with animal abuse, trespassing, tampering with a motor vehicle and improper disposal.

KY3-TV reports that the investigation is continuing and the suspects could face more charges.

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