Two Chapman University lacrosse players have been arrested for allegedly stealing a defenseless turkey from a high school. The turkey's name is Tim, and he lives at Orange High School, where students can get involved in an agricultural program to learn to care for farm animals. The 5-year-old, 40-pound bird disappeared sometime between Saturday night and Sunday morning, the OC Register reports.
Patti Williams, who teaches agriculture at the school, noted that Tim can't fly and must have been abducted. He was discovered on Sunday afternoon, wandering alone near Glassell Street and Chapman Avenue. Williams said that when Tim was found, he was missing his tail and several chest feathers, had sustained cuts to his body and a broken toe, was having trouble breathing, and was spattered with a black substance and reeked of beer.
"His condition is declining at best," she said. "His chest and air sacs are compromised."
The Orange Police Department arrested two suspects on Monday: Steven Thomas Koressel, 23, and Richard Brenton Melbye, 21. Both are members of Chapman University's lacrosse team, according to KTLA.
A statement from Chapman University stated:
Two Chapman students have been identified and arrested by the Orange Police Department in the incident in which the turkey was abducted from Orange High School. The University will also undertake the appropriate disciplinary actions according to our Student Conduct Code. The University will not tolerate any instances of theft, animal abuse or cruelty, is appalled by this behavior, and takes this issue extremely seriously.
Jake, another turkey who also lives at the school, was unharmed, according to NBC Los Angeles.
