This Article is From May 17, 2013

US man jailed for killing monkey in a zoo

US man jailed for killing monkey in a zoo
Boise, Idaho: A man convicted of breaking into a zoo and brutally beating to death a Patas monkey will spend up to a year in prison, where he'll take part in a treatment program.

A judge sentenced 22-year-old Michael Watkins today for his role in the November 17 crime at the Boise Zoo in western Idaho state.

Watkins gave a brief statement before sentencing, apologising for his actions.

Fourth District Judge Lynn G Norton rejected defence attorney requests for probation. Instead, Norton said she wanted to impose a punishment fitting the crime that still enables Watkins to turn his life around.

Watkins was convicted of felony grand theft and animal cruelty, a misdemeanour in Idaho.

The judge will revisit sentencing after Watkins completes treatment.
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