MIAMI – Authorities say a 16-year-old boy has been arrested for mutilating and killing an American crocodile on the University of Miami campus.
According to a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission news release, the suspect told UM police where to find the crocodile's head.
The animal's headless and tailless carcass was discovered in a campus canal earlier this month.
American crocodiles are listed as an endangered species in Florida and a threatened species under federal laws.
The penalty for killing the crocodile in Florida is up to five years in prison and a fine of $5,000.
The teen is facing several charges, including felony cruelty to animals and trespass on school property. Authorities say other arrests might be forthcoming.
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