RANDALL BERTSCH arrested on accusations of killing a duckling and beating their siblings before throwing them in the trash

- California, USA -

The Irvine Police Department announced the arrest of 71-year-old RANDALL BERTSCH (pictured).

According to the Department’s press release, on the morning of May 13, 2026, a mother duck and her ducklings “.. were swimming in the community pool near Morena and Segura.”

At one point, a male who lived nearby, later identified as BERTSCH, “.. got into the pool, gathered some of the ducklings, and placed them into a box. A short time later, he used a plastic trash bin and struck some of the ducklings. He then threw the animals into a trash can.”

Sadly, one duckling was found deceased.

Among the surviving ducklings, there was one who had severe head trauma and was taken to a veterinary clinic for care.

According to police, the remaining ducklings and their mom were able to escape the area.

The Department’s Animal Services Unit immediately began an investigation in coordination with Detectives from the Department’s Investigations Bureau.

BERTSCH was quickly located at his home but refused to talk to the officers. Consequently, a search warrant was obtained and served at his home.

BERTSCH was placed under arrest and charged with animal cruelty. Police advised that once the investigation is complete, the case will be submitted to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office for review.

Irvine Police stressed that the protection and welfare of animals in the city remains a high priority and reminded the community that “.. migratory birds are federally protected and, in most cases, cannot be moved or relocated, including those that nest near pools.”

They also urge residents to contact Animal Services at 949-724-7000 if they need help with ducklings or other wildlife.

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Voice For Us Disclaimer: This story is sourced from the press release provided to Voice For by the Irvine Police Department. Please note that details may be removed or new information added should updates become available.

In the case of charges being dropped, dismissed, or the case being purged, this article will be rectified accordingly, if official documentation is provided to Voice For Us.

Mugshot provided to Voice For Us by the Irvine Police Department.

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