There is a family-run zoo-park in East Stroudsburg. It features various types of reptiles and other animals, and even has a petting area where patrons are allowed to get up close the zoo’s inhabitants. One of the main features at the Pennsylvania zoo is a 22-year-old bobcat. Police were alerted recently when the feline went missing. A 45-year-old man has since been arrested and is facing charges for allegedly stealing the cat.
Police say they believe the man can be seen on video footage from security cameras at the zoo. The films reportedly show a man entering the zoo through an unmarked door, then exiting the building, carrying the bobcat. Police also say a man’s voice can be heard on the video, telling the bobcat to get into the trunk of his vehicle as the cat was struggling to break free.
Additional charges were filed against the man
In addition to theft, the man is also facing charges for criminal trespassing, animal cruelty and several other crimes, including possession of marijuana. He is scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 16, 2022. As in all criminal cases, the man will have an opportunity to refute the charges against him.
Even when police claim that someone appears on surveillance film committing a crime, prosecutors must prove that the accused is, in fact, the same person. There are numerous cases of mistaken identity, where police have mistakenly arrested the wrong person. Anyone who becomes subject in a Pennsylvania criminal investigation may request immediate legal support from a criminal defense attorney.