A Sarasota woman, Alicia Kincheloe, 30, has been found guilty of aggravated animal cruelty and tampering with evidence in connection to a viral video showing a raccoon being burned alive. State Attorney Ed Brodsky confirmed the conviction on Monday. The incident occurred in August 2022 when Kincheloe posted a video on social media, laughing as smoke emerged from a dumpster where the raccoon was trapped. In a subsequent video, she showed the charred remains of the animal and made disturbing comments. Kincheloe’s father, Roddy Kincheloe, was also charged with aggravated animal cruelty for allegedly stabbing the raccoon with a pitchfork.
During the trial, Alicia Kincheloe claimed ignorance about how the fire started and maintained that she believed the gas can contained water. However, security camera footage showed her removing the dead raccoon from the dumpster and disposing of the evidence. The jury found her guilty on both counts. Kincheloe is scheduled to be sentenced on December 19 and could face up to 10 years in jail.
State Attorney Ed Brodsky expressed disappointment that the animal could not be saved from a horrific death but emphasized the importance of treating all animals humanely and with respect. He noted that a simple phone call to Animal Services or the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission could have prevented the tragedy.
