WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — West Palm Beach Police are being hailed heroes for helping return a stolen Goeldi’s monkey to the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society. Detectives returned the female monkey to Zoo officials shortly before midnight Wednesday.
"We are grateful for the tenacious and passionate detectives and police officers involved in our case," said Margo McKnight, Zoo President & CEO.
Zoo officials say the 12-year-old Goeldi’s monkey who suffers from inflammation appears to be in good health.
“Kali is doing well considering she has been without her medication for days,” McKnight said. “Our animal care team is monitoring her closely, and our goal is to reunite her with Quito, her mate, as soon as we know she’s healthy.” The rare primate was discovered missing by a keeper during early morning rounds on Monday. Surveillance video shows a suspect entering and leaving the Zoo early Monday morning. There were also signs of forced entry at ‘Kali’s’ enclosure.
“We have on-site security guards and surveillance equipment, now we’re looking at increasing both technology and manpower," said McKnight.
“Our entire Zoo family is overwhelmed by the outpouring of community support. Thank you to everyone who played a role in bringing ‘Kali’ home safely.”