Topeka Zoo Cited For Crime Incidents
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Topeka Zoo Cited For Crime Incidents


City officials announced Tuesday that the USDA issued the citations regarding a May 6th vandalism incident where a bobcat was released and a May 17th theft of a golf cart from the zoo.

Topeka (WIBW) - Two recent criminal incidents at the Topeka Zoo have resulted in two citations for the zoo from the USDA.

City officials announced Tuesday that the USDA issued the citations regarding a May 6th vandalism incident where a bobcat was released and a May 17th theft of a golf cart from the zoo.

In the first violation, the USDA found the zoo “failed to provide a barrier between the general viewing public and the bobcat.” The violation occurred following the bobcat’s release by unknown persons engaged in criminal activity.

The USDA also cited the zoo for not having a secure fence. It noted that, “The facility must construct the perimeter fencing so that it protects the animals in the facility by restricting animals and unauthorized persons from going through it or under it ….”

The zoo says someone cut the perimeter fencing to gain access to zoo grounds and steal a golf cart. The golf cart was recovered several days later.

“The Zoo and the Topeka Police Department are in the process of evaluating current security measures and developing additional security options,” Zoo Director Brendan Wiley said. “We will review our processes and procedures in an effort reduce the chances of similar acts occurring again.”

The violations are the latest in a string of problems for the Topeka Zoo. They received several other citations last year following the deaths of several animals. Citations earlier this year included problems with the care of the elephants.


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