ANIMAL SACRIFICE CASE
Chris Hawes reports.
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North Texas taxpayers could be on the hook for a $400,000 legal bill, all because their city lost its fight, against animal sacrifice in religious ceremonies.
The bill could go higher.
Jose Merced, a Santeria priest, has sometimes sacrificed animals, such as chickens and goats, inside his home, as part of a religious ceremony.
"People have asked me if I drink blood. I don't drink blood at all," he said.
The City of Euless says that what has happened inside his home is a threat to public health.
The city fought Merced in federal court to try and stop the sacrifices.
In July, the court ruled in Merced's favor and ruled the City of Euless must pay his appellate attorneys' fees.
One of his attorneys, Eric Rassbach, estimates the total legal bill at around $400,000.
"Quite frankly, they should be upset with their elected officials who signed off on this lawsuit," Rassbach said.
Euless's attorney says the city will fight it.
"The city will continue to attempt to protect the rights of its citizens and their public health and, as in every other instance, protect the interests of their taxpayers," Mick McKamie said.
