CHAPIN, S.C. — Two teens are now facing felony charges in an animal cruelty case.
This comes after investigators say they set a possum on fire in Clarendon County, videotaping the incident, and then putting it on social media for all to see.
While scrolling on social media over the last few days Heather Cooper was one of hundreds of people to see that video of the teenage boys.
"It made me want to cry," she said. "I mean, it's just I've always been an animal lover. You know, these are innocent animals. They don't deserve that."
Cooper is not only your average person who keeps an eye on social media but she has also dedicated her life to rescuing animals like possums, squirrels, and raccoons as a part of Palmetto Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation.
Now that the teens have been charged, the President of Palmetto Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation, Virginia McCracken-LeGrand says she hopes people will put more value on the lives of these animals and that the teens in question become advocates, not animal abusers.
"Take the time to educate yourself about these amazing animals. They do so much for our environment, they have personalities and feelings," McCracken-LeGrand explained. "I can't imagine what it would feel like to be tortured, caught on fire and stomped and kicked, and full wouldn't do that to people. Why are you going to do that to animals? Find out why these kids thought it was okay and re-educate them. Maybe some of their punishment needs to be to spend some time with some rehabbers to learn to respect these animals."
Cooper also wants to remind folks of the old saying, 'If you see something, say something', especially when it comes to an animal in trouble.
"When we see people intentionally taking these lives and doing things that are just downright sickening. You feel like you have to do something about it," she said.
Animal Rescues in the Midlands: