In brief
A man from Canada was found guilty of stealing a flamingo from the Flamingo Las Vegas hotel’s wildlife enclosure and bringing it to his hotel room while under the influence of alcohol. The bird, named Peachy, suffered injuries but has since recovered. Prosecutors presented video evidence and animal expert testimony, while the defendant claimed he thought it would be a harmless prank. He now serves house arrest and awaits sentencing in December, with a potential prison term of almost five years. The case highlights growing concerns over animal welfare and the responsibilities of visitors in tourist destinations.
Incident Overview
A 34-year-old Canadian tourist was convicted of taking a Chilean flamingo named Peachy from a Las Vegas hotel’s wildlife enclosure while he was heavily intoxicated. The bird was brought into the tourist’s hotel room and sustained injury.
Trial Details
Video evidence showed Fairbarn carrying the flamingo by the neck on an elevator. He admitted drinking 30-40 beers before the act and claimed he did not intend to harm the bird. An animal expert testified that the flamingo’s feathers were torn and it suffered blood loss.
Defendant’s Defense
A lawyer said Fairbarn’s actions were a prank and blamed alcohol for his bad decisions. He also recorded death threats he received after arrest.
Outcome and Current Status
The jury convicted him on felony and misdemeanor animal abuse charges after reviewing 112 pieces of evidence. He faces up to nearly five years in prison, is currently under house arrest, and a sentencing hearing is set for December.
Impact on the Flamingo
The source animal veterinarian reports Peachy has largely recovered, though remains anxious around humans.
