In Sin City, what occurs typically remains a secret, unless, of course, you consume “30 to 40 beers” and snatch a flamingo – then it becomes a global news sensation.
An Ontario man faced animal cruelty charges in a Las Vegas court for taking a flamingo named Peachy from its habitat at a renowned Las Vegas hotel in what prosecutors termed a drunken and malicious act. Mitchell Fairbarn allegedly harmed the flamingo on March 3, as indicated by the indictment reviewed by CBC News. After being found guilty of felony and misdemeanor animal cruelty charges, Fairbarn awaits sentencing on December 1, potentially facing up to four years in prison for the felony and six months for the misdemeanor.
Fairbarn, described as a contractor from rural Ontario, expressed his initial thought of the incident being a joke that he could share with friends for years. He mentioned consuming “30 to 40” beers during his time in Las Vegas for a construction expo, which led to his decision to take the flamingo from the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel and Casino early in the morning on March 3.
The Flamingo hotel’s wildlife habitat, accredited by the National Wildlife Federation, is home to various animals, including Chilean flamingos like Peachy. Witnesses reported seeing Fairbarn with the flamingo in an elevator and later in his hotel room, where the bird suffered injuries. The veterinarian treating Peachy testified that the flamingo required antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and weeks of pain relief.
Fairbarn admitted to his drunken actions but denied any malicious intent towards the bird. His lawyer emphasized that his client regrets his intoxicated behavior and never intended harm. Prosecutors argued that Fairbarn caused physical pain to the flamingo, while Fairbarn’s defense stressed his remorse and lack of harmful intent.
Animal rights advocate John Waudby believes justice was served for Peachy and hopes this case sends a strong message against animal cruelty in Nevada. The incident involving Peachy is one of several recent animal cruelty cases at Las Vegas casinos. Despite the ordeal, Peachy has fortunately recovered from the incident.