Accused of Stealing a Flamingo: Vegas Casino Trial Focuses on Peachy’s Injuries
Fairbarn describes the incident
Fairbarn testified Friday that he took Peachy as a “silly pranky joke” after drinking between 30 and 40 beers. He said he had sat with another flamingo inside the habitat before grabbing Peachy for a photograph. He also told the court that he grew up on farms, has dogs and a parrot named Sonny, and once rescued an abandoned llama and six ducks. During cross-examination, Fairbarn acknowledged that the video shown to jurors “doesn’t look good.”
Prosecutors show video evidence
Prosecutors began the trial last week by presenting surveillance footage, photographs and Snapchats. The material showed Fairbarn and two friends smiling and laughing, and Fairbarn grabbing Peachy by the neck.
Veterinarian details Peachy’s injuries
The bird’s veterinarian said Peachy had seven to eight missing feathers, broken shafts and blood loss consistent with trauma. The flamingo needed antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and weeks of pain medicine to recover.
Jury deliberations expected Monday
Fairbarn faces two counts of animal cruelty. Authorities say he was drunk when the flamingo was taken. The trial is set to resume Monday with closing arguments, after which the jury is expected to deliberate.
Key points
- Fairbarn said he took Peachy as a prank after drinking 30 to 40 beers.
- Prosecutors showed footage and images of Fairbarn with two friends at the habitat.
- A veterinarian said Peachy suffered feather damage and blood loss.
- Closing arguments are scheduled for Monday before jury deliberations.