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Teens Charged After Attacking Crocodile at Zoo
15 Sep
Summary
- Teenagers charged with criminal damage, trespass, and animal cruelty.
- The crocodile, Dangalabba, sustained only minor superficial injuries.
- One teen was jailed, the other released on bail pending court dates.
Two teenagers face multiple charges, including criminal damage, trespass, and animal cruelty, after allegedly entering a crocodile enclosure at Perth Zoo. One of the youths is accused of striking the crocodile, named Dangalabba, with a metal pole, while the other allegedly assisted with a torch.
Dangalabba, who has resided at Perth Zoo since 2019, suffered minor superficial injuries during the unlawful intrusion. Zoo officials confirmed the crocodile is recovering well under the care of its veterinary team, emphasizing that animal welfare is paramount.
One of the accused teenagers was granted bail and is scheduled to appear in court on October 6. The other teenager was remanded in custody, with a bail application hearing set for September 18. Responding to the incident, Western Australia Police Minister Reece Whitby expressed disbelief, noting the significant danger involved and calling it a "potential tragedy."
