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Vegas tourist who took Peachy the flamingo from hotel exhibit is found guilty of animal cruelty
NBC News • • nation
Key Points:
- A Canadian tourist, Mitchell Fairbarn, was convicted by a Nevada jury on felony and misdemeanor animal cruelty charges for stealing and harming a flamingo named Peachy from the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel and Casino.
- The incident occurred on March 3 when Fairbarn, reportedly intoxicated, took Peachy to his hotel room, causing physical injuries and stress to the bird, which has since become more anxious.
- Prosecutors presented video evidence showing Fairbarn handling the flamingo roughly, resulting in feather loss, bleeding, and wing injuries, while the defense argued the act was foolish but unintentional.
- Fairbarn faces up to four years in prison plus six months for the misdemeanor and remains in custody pending sentencing scheduled for December 1.
- Animal rights advocates praised the verdict as a strong message against animal cruelty in Nevada, emphasizing accountability for those who harm protected animals.
