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Charges Against Accused Animal Carcass Thieves Dropped
By: Associated Press
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A prosecutor says charges will be dropped against four Ohio men accused of trying to steal the carcass of a lion from an exotic animal compound as long as the men complete 40 hours of community service.
The lion was among dozens of animals killed by police outside Zanesville last fall after their owner released them, then committed suicide.
Maria Kalis, an assistant Muskingum County prosecutor, said today the case involved youthful hijinks and poor-decision making. She said authorities didn't want the futures of the men, ranging in ages from 19 to 21, to be affected by bad decisions on one night.
The men were charged with theft. A message was left with their attorney.
Kalis didn't know the status of a 17-year-old boy charged in the case.