Prosecutor dismisses animal cruelty charges against Palić Zoo

The Basic Public Prosecutor's Office in Subotica has dismissed several criminal complaints concerning the welfare and treatment of animals at the Palić Zoo. Following an extensive investigation, which included gathering documentation, interviewing staff, conducting inspections, and analyzing data on animal conditions, diet, health, and mortality, the prosecutor's office found no grounds for criminal charges. A veterinary expert commission from the University of Belgrade's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine conducted a thorough review of the evidence and visited the zoo. Their assessment concluded that there were no elements constituting the criminal offense of killing or mistreating animals. The prosecutor's office noted that individual oversights by employees and deficiencies identified during inspections are matters for internal disciplinary and administrative proceedings, rather than criminal prosecution. The decision comes after a period of public scrutiny and the release of photos and videos that raised concerns about the zoo's conditions.