Stolen Zoo Flamingo Dies Following Fraternity Prank
- 10 years ago
A University of Southern Mississippi freshman is facing charges of two counts of animal cruelty, grand larceny and trespassing relating to a case of a stolen flamingo.
A University of Southern Mississippi freshman is facing charges of two counts of animal cruelty, grand larceny and trespassing relating to a case of a stolen flamingo.
At approximately 1 a.m. on October 7th, a small group of people entered the zoo and kidnapped the female Chilean flamingo. The creature was located about 7 and a half hours later.
She was returned to the facility with life-threatening injuries and unfortunately had to be euthanized. A male flamingo also died.
Keepers suspect he passed away from injuries he received while protecting his female mate during the theft. According to Hattiesburg Police Department, 19-year-old Devin Nottis along with a number of others were taking part in a school fraternity scavenger hunt.
He was only supposed to photograph an animal, but he allegedly decided to steal the flamingo. After he was arrested, law enforcement announced that 9 other people could be charged with conspiracy when the case is presented to a grand jury.
Nottis has been placed on interim suspension by the school and the fraternity chapter received a cease and desist order.
Southern Mississippi Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Joe Paul remarked “This is a terrible and heinous act that has occurred, and inconsistent with the values of our institution.”
A University of Southern Mississippi freshman is facing charges of two counts of animal cruelty, grand larceny and trespassing relating to a case of a stolen flamingo.
At approximately 1 a.m. on October 7th, a small group of people entered the zoo and kidnapped the female Chilean flamingo. The creature was located about 7 and a half hours later.
She was returned to the facility with life-threatening injuries and unfortunately had to be euthanized. A male flamingo also died.
Keepers suspect he passed away from injuries he received while protecting his female mate during the theft. According to Hattiesburg Police Department, 19-year-old Devin Nottis along with a number of others were taking part in a school fraternity scavenger hunt.
He was only supposed to photograph an animal, but he allegedly decided to steal the flamingo. After he was arrested, law enforcement announced that 9 other people could be charged with conspiracy when the case is presented to a grand jury.
Nottis has been placed on interim suspension by the school and the fraternity chapter received a cease and desist order.
Southern Mississippi Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Joe Paul remarked “This is a terrible and heinous act that has occurred, and inconsistent with the values of our institution.”