Owner of Chimp Who Attacked Woman Won’t Face Charges

Earlier this year, Travis the chimpanzee made headlines for attacking a woman unprovoked, ripping off her nose, hands, lips, and eyelids. She was left blind with multiple other injuries. The woman’s attorneys had filed a $50 million lawsuit against the chimp’s owner, but prosecutors announced in December that the owner will not face criminal charges.

An attorney for the state of Connecticut said there is nothing to indicate that the 200-pound chimp’s owner knew the animal was dangerous and ignored that danger. The chimp was reportedly shot and killed by police. Prior to the incident this year, the animal had escaped from his owner’s car in 2003 and led police on a chase for several hours.

Wildlife experts say the incident should serve as a reminder that chimps are unpredictable and unsuitable as pets.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgPvif2hSWs

Source: Chimp’s owner won’t face charges in attack, USAToday.com, December 8, 2009
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