AR-News: (MD)Trial to begin in llama killing

[Animalconcerns]

The trial of Shannon Ray Hitchens, the man accused of molesting and
fatally stabbing a baby llama at the Salisbury Zoo, is set to begin today.

Hitchens, 24, of Parsonsburg is alleged to have scaled the fence around
the zoo Aug. 29 and engaged in sex acts with the llama before injuring it
with a foot-long knife, according to court documents.

The animal was discovered by zookeepers the next day and was euthanized
because of the severity of its wounds, said Jim Rapp, zoo director.

Hitchens is facing four felony charges of aggravated cruelty to animals,
second-degree burglary, theft of more than $500 and attempted theft. The
charges carry penalties of up to 48 years in prison and $56,000 in fines. 

full story:
http://www.delawareonline.com/newsjournal/local/2004/03/08trialtobegininl.html

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