Boise (US): A man convicted of breaking into a zoo and brutally beating to death a Patas monkey will spend up to a year in prison, where he`ll take part in a treatment program.
A judge sentenced 22-year-old Michael Watkins on Thursday for his role in the November 17 crime at the Boise Zoo in western Idaho state.
Watkins gave a brief statement before sentencing, apologising for his actions.
Fourth District Judge Lynn G Norton rejected defence attorney requests for probation. Instead, Norton said she wanted to impose a punishment fitting the crime that still enables Watkins to turn his life around.
Watkins was convicted of felony grand theft and animal cruelty, a misdemeanour in Idaho.
The judge will revisit sentencing after Watkins completes treatment.
PTI
