CJ the chimp arrives at Oregon sanctuary
CJ, the chimpanzee who escaped twice from her northwest Las Vegas enclosure in recent weeks, has arrived safely at an Oregon sanctuary.
The female ape was greeted by seven other chimpanzees and ate some of her favorite foods , according to a news release from Chimps, Inc., which operates the facility in central Oregon.
CJ escaped for the second time Aug. 11 before being tranquilized by officers. It was a happier ending than her first escape July 12, when CJ and partner Buddy escaped from their backyard enclosure at 5720 Rowland Ave., near Ann Road and Jones Boulevard.
A Las Vegas police officer shot and killed Buddy as he "aggressively approached" a group of onlookers, according to police. CJ later was tranquilized.
After the second escape, owner Timmi DeRosa received a misdemeanor citation from animal control officers Aug. 11 for housing a dangerous animal without a permit and for an animal running loose. The charges carry a fine of up to $1,000 and six months in jail. She is scheduled to be arraigned Oct. 25.
The first escape prompted Clark County commissioners to pursue tighter regulations for owning exotic animals.
Chimps, Inc., said it costs roughly $1,200 per month - not including medical costs - to house a chimpanzee, and anyone wishing to donate to the sanctuary can do so online at chimps-inc.org.
