Holly LeGresley, a 37-year-old British woman residing in Kidderminster, Worcestershire, has pleaded guilty to her involvement in a global network responsible for torturing monkeys.
LeGresley confessed to uploading 22 images and 132 videos depicting the torture of monkeys to an online chat group. Her actions were uncovered during a BBC investigation into the overseas torture of monkeys, revealing a widespread network that paid individuals in Indonesia to kill and torture baby monkeys on video.
Using the username “The Immolator,” LeGresley even conducted a poll within the group to determine which method of torture should be inflicted on infant monkeys.
Appearing at Worcester Magistrates Court on Tuesday, LeGresley admitted guilt to charges of publishing obscene articles and intentionally encouraging animal cruelty. The prosecution, led by Angela Hallan, disclosed that West Mercia police charged LeGresley based on information provided by the National Wildlife Crime Unit.
Another defendant, Adriana Orme, aged 55 and residing in Ryall, near Upton-upon-Severn, Worcestershire, faced similar charges but did not enter a plea. Both women were accused of participating in online chat groups involved in the monkey torture trade, as exposed by the BBC.
While LeGresley admitted to uploading images of monkey torture and making a payment to encourage cruelty, Orme’s case was transferred to the crown court for further proceedings.
LeGresley’s sentencing is scheduled for June 7, while Orme is set to appear in court on June 5.