Tourist Who Stole Flamingo From Las Vegas Hotel Found Guilty of Animal Cruelty After Drunken Prank

A Canadian tourist who removed a flamingo from its enclosure at a famous Las Vegas hotel and carried the bird to his room has been found guilty of animal cruelty. Mitchell Fairbarn’s actions, which he described as a drunken mistake, left the 27-year-old Chilean flamingo named Peachy injured and frightened. The verdict came after a closely watched trial that examined security footage and the circumstances surrounding the unusual incident.

The incident occurred in the early hours of March 3 at the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel and Casino. Prosecutors said Fairbarn entered the resort’s wildlife habitat without permission and took Peachy from the enclosure. Video shown in court captured him holding the bird inside an elevator and carrying it along a hotel corridor toward his room. Hotel security raised the alarm after staff noticed that a flamingo had been taken from its habitat.

Investigators said Peachy was later found with blood on its feathers, injuries to its wings and around seven or eight missing feathers. Prosecutors argued that Fairbarn had deliberately caused the bird physical pain, pointing to the footage and evidence recovered during the investigation. The flamingo required veterinary attention following the incident.

During the trial, Fairbarn’s defense attorney argued that his client had been heavily intoxicated and never intended to hurt the animal. Fairbarn also testified that he regretted his actions, describing the incident as a foolish prank. However, prosecutors maintained that being drunk did not excuse the harm caused to Peachy. After approximately five hours of deliberations on October 19, jurors found Fairbarn guilty of one felony count and one misdemeanor count of animal cruelty.

The case has also had serious consequences for Fairbarn personally. He has remained under house arrest while awaiting the outcome of the legal proceedings and has been unable to return to Canada. Prosecutors noted that he had received death threats following the incident, although they argued that the consequences stemmed from the choices he had made. He faces up to four years in prison for the felony conviction, with a possible additional six months for the misdemeanor. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for December 1.

Peachy is recovering physically, but the bird’s veterinarian said it has shown increased anxiety and nervousness during examinations. Nevada animal welfare advocate John Waudby welcomed the verdict, saying it sent a message that cruelty toward animals would not be tolerated. For the resort, which is known for its resident flamingos and other wildlife, the case has highlighted the importance of protecting animals from visitors who ignore safety rules. Fairbarn’s sentence will be determined at a later hearing.

Source: The Sun