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Sequim man on trial for branding children


The Associated Press

PORT ANGELES - A Sequim (skwim) man is on trial in Port Angeles, accused of branding his three children like cattle.

KIRO-TV reports Mark Seamands branded his 13- and 15-year-old sons and 18-year-old daughter with the letters "SK" - for "Seamands' Kids." He's been charged with assaulting the sons but not the daughter because she was old enough to give consent.

Seamands' ex-wife says she was horrified when she saw the scars. They are on the youngest boy's chest, the other boy's arm and on the back of the daughter's leg.

KIRO says the boys are expected to testify in defense of their father because they are proud of their brands. Seamands also is expected to take the stand and show his own brand.