HERKIMER, N.Y. -- Two men were charged with sex crimes against several cows after a farmer installed video surveillance in his barn to find out why his cows weren't producing milk, state police said.

Michael H. Jones, 35, of Cedarville Road, Illion, and Reid A. Fontaine, 31, address unknown, were each charged with sexual misconduct, a misdemeanor.

State police said a local farmer set up video surveillance in his barn in an attempt to determine "why his cows appeared anxious," and were not producing milk as usual. The farmer contacted state police when he watched the video and discovered that his cows were being sexually abused.

State police said Jones agreed to film Fontaine as he tried to have sexual contact with several cows. State police did not provide further details.

Jones and Fontaine were arrested and released on appearance tickets.

Reid A. Fontaine