The incident: Ferrell was arrested on September 6, 2024, after witnesses reported that she stomped on a cat’s head before eating it in front of residents. Charged with animal cruelty, including injuring animals, prohibitions concerning companion animals, and disorderly conduct, Ferrell’s bond was set at $100,000.
Public reaction and political ramifications: The case has generated significant media attention and public outcry. Right-wing social media accounts have bizarrely linked Ferrell’s actions to unfounded claims about illegal Haitian migrants consuming pets and wild birds in Springfield, Ohio. This connection has led to the creation of AI-generated memes depicting Donald Trump holding cats and ducks, reflecting the surreal nature of the situation.
In response to the controversy, Trump’s campaign issued a statement that read, “President Trump will deport migrants who eat pets. Kamala Harris will send them to your town next. Make your choice, America.” This statement highlights the campaign’s use of sensationalist narratives to rally support.
