Brutal Calf Abuse - Newborn calves were violently separated from their mothers, suffering broken bones and severe distress. Many were malnourished, confined in tiny crates, and roughly handled by employees and managers.
In July of 2024, Animal Recovery Mission (ARM) launched an animal cruelty investigation at Rainbow Valley Dairy outside of Phoenix, Arizona. What began as a focus on one facility quickly expanded into a two-part investigation when ARM’ operative uncovered disturbing calf abuse at nearby Butterfield Dairy during a scheduled calf shipment.
Both dairies are owned by the DeJong family, prominent dairy producers, and suppliers for Coca-Cola’s Fairlife milk brand. The DeJong’s have a documented history of animal abuse, having been implicated in similar acts during ARM’s 2019 four-part viral expose at their Texas organic facility, Natural Prairie Farms.
Over a three-month operation, ARM’s undercover investigator, hired for a general labor position, was able to collect extensive footage from various areas of the facility, including milking parlors, birthing areas, and calf housing. The evidence captured revealed shocking instances of animal cruelty, neglect, and environmental violations by both managers and employees.