P R E S S R E L E A S E
For Release: March 21, 2013
Contact Person: Shawna Dunn
Michael Watkins was charged with Grand Theft and Burglary in the death of a Zoo Boise Patas monkey on November 17, 2012. Watkins pled guilty today before the Honorable Judge Lynn Norton to Attempted Grand Theft and Animal Cruelty in exchange for dismissal of the Burglary charge.
The State is free to argue for any sentence up to the maximum of 7 ½ years of incarceration. The State will limit itself to recommending a minimum fine in exchange for Watkins’ agreement to pay restitution. The sentencing will be held on May 16, 2013, at 10:00 a.m. before the Honorable Judge Norton.