Zoosiana Burglary – ARREST MADE
Broussard, February 7, 2023:
Investigators with the Broussard Police Department were able to identify a suspect in the recent burglary of the zoo resulting in the theft of squirrel monkeys. Broussard Police Detectives with the assistance of Opelousas Police Department executed a search warrant and arrest warrant.
Joseph Randell, 61 YOA from Opelousas was arrested and booked into the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center on charges of Burglary and 12 counts of Cruelty to Animals.
No monkeys were recovered; the whereabouts of the monkeys is still currently under investigation. Investigators are still unsure if there is any connection between this case and the Dallas Zoo cases.
Original Press Release
Broussard, January 29, 2023:
On January 29, 2023, at approximately 10:30 AM; Officers with the Broussard Police Department responded to the report of a burglary at Zoosiana.
Upon initial investigation, it was reported that several squirrel monkeys were taken from their habitat. All other animals at the Zoo are accounted for and there are no public safety concerns at this time.
Investigation into this incident is ongoing. Anyone with information on this incident are urged to call the Broussard Police Department at 337-837-6259, LA Department of Wildlife Fisheries or Crimes Stoppers at 232-TIPS.
