A woman faces charges after taunting a tiger at a New Jersey zoo, narrowly escaping injury.
At a Glance
- Zyair Dennis, 24, charged with defiant trespassing at Cohanzick Zoo in Bridgeton, NJ
- Video shows Dennis jumping fence, approaching tiger enclosure on August 18, 2024
- Tiger lunged at Dennis, who narrowly avoided being bitten
- Dennis faces up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine
- Zoo officials reviewing safety measures following the incident
Reckless Act Leads to Legal Consequences
In a disturbing display of recklessness, a New Jersey woman has found herself in legal trouble after taunting a tiger at the Cohanzick Zoo in Bridgeton. Zyair Dennis, 24, of Millville, has been charged with defiant trespassing for an incident that occurred on August 18, 2024. The charges stem from her brazen act of jumping over a fence and approaching the tiger’s enclosure, putting herself and the animal at risk.
Video footage of the incident quickly spread on social media, showing Dennis leaning over the enclosure with her fingers poking through the cage. The tiger, agitated by her presence, became aggressive and lunged at her. Dennis narrowly escaped injury by pulling her hand back just in time. This reckless behavior not only endangered her life but also violated city ordinances and zoo safety protocols.
A woman seen on video hopping a fence to taunt a tiger at a New Jersey zoo — and very nearly getting her hand bit — has been charged for the dangerous encounterhttps://t.co/8RxVLDqC4B
— NBC New York (@NBCNewYork) August 26, 2024
Public Outcry and Zoo Response
The incident has sparked outrage among zoo officials and animal welfare advocates. John Medica, director of Recreation and Public Affairs for the City of Bridgeton, expressed his shock at the careless action. The zoo is now evaluating its safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“I was horrified honestly,” John Medica, director of Recreation and Public Affairs for the City of Bridgeton, said. “It was just very careless, a very careless action and I hope the individual recognizes how lucky they were to still have all of their limbs.”
https://www.cbsnews.com/philadelphia/news/woman-charged-trespassing-new-jersey-zoo-tiger-enclosure/
The Cohanzick Zoo, which bills itself as the first zoo in New Jersey, is taking the incident seriously. Zoo administrators have announced a comprehensive review of their safety protocols, including consultations with the USDA, NJ Fish Wildlife, and larger zoos to incorporate industry best practices.
Legal Repercussions and Public Safety Concerns
Dennis now faces serious legal consequences for her actions. She has been charged with defiant trespassing and violating city ordinances related to zoo conduct. If convicted, she could face up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of respecting zoo safety barriers and wildlife.
“The Cohanzick Zoo is evaluating measures related to the safety of our animals and visitors,” administrators said on Monday. “These measures include a review involving USDA, NJ Fish Wildlife and communicating with larger zoos to evaluate and/or incorporate industry best practices. Current safeguards notwithstanding we are always examining ways to enhance animal safety as well as the safety of our visitors and guests.”
This incident highlights the ongoing challenge zoos face in balancing public access with animal and human safety. It also underscores the need for visitors to respect wildlife and follow posted safety guidelines. As the legal process unfolds, many hope this case will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider similar reckless behavior at animal enclosures.
Sources:
1. Woman who nearly lost her hand while taunting tiger at NJ zoo gets charged
3.Woman charged with hopping fence, taunting tiger at NJ zoo
4. Woman who hopped fence near tiger enclosure at New Jersey zoo charged with trespassing
