R.I.P. Ozzie The Duck
WESTFIELD, Mass. — Westfield police say they are seeking tips to find the people who killed a beloved misfit duck that many considered the mascot of Stanley Park.
"Ozzie," a Muscovy duck, was found dead Friday after a jogger reported seeing a group of boys injuring it, including one who repeatedly stomped on the duck. She told police she tried to save the duck, but was unsuccessful.
Ozzie had been a fixture at Stanley Park for about three years, drawing attention for its unusual appearance as it trailed other ducks around the park.
Park officials say the attack was "brutal" and that they gave Ozzie a proper burial.
The Republican of Springfield reports a reward has been established for information, and police say the culprits will be charged with animal cruelty.
****************UPDATE***************************
Arrest made in "Ozzie the Duck" killing in Mass. park
(CBS/WBZ) WESTFIELD, Ma. - Police have made an arrest in the killing of Ozzie the duck, a much-loved Stanley Park resident for the last three years.
The Republican reported that a 15-year-old boy was arrested Tuesday morning in connection with the killing. According to Westfield Police Capt. Hipoloto Nunez, the teen was charged with cruelty to animals and killing a domesticated animal.
In Massachusetts, killing a domesticated animal is a felony carrying up to five years in prison and as much as $2,500 in fines.
The suspect's identity is not being released since he's a minor.
CBS station WBZ said the park posted on its website that Ozzie the duck was killed on Friday around 4:30 p.m. by a group of teenagers who were seen stomping the bird to death by a jogger.
"Ozzie came to Stanley Park a few years ago and has been a special member of our duck, geese & swan family ever since," said Robert C. McKean, park director.
The Muscovy duck has been a favorite at the park for years, even though the breed prefers tropical climates.
McKean said he is happy with the police department's work and everyone who helped in the investigation.
Officials hope to use the good will generated by the duck to help tighten security.
"We're also setting up an Ozzie fund so we can have surveillance cameras down here and actually put it on the web so everybody can watch the park and be our own security even though we might be closed."
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