Two boys, 11 and 12, charged after animals die in alleged Capel Manor College burglary in west London
Metropolitan Police officers were called to reports that "several animals had been killed" last month.
Wednesday 13 March 2024 13:09, UK
Two boys, 11 and 12, have been charged with animal cruelty and burglary.
The allegations relate to reports of a break-in at Capel Manor College, in Gunnersbury Park, west London, during which a number of animals died.
Staff said that the incident, which took place on 25 February, left a number of enclosures damaged.
Now the two children are due to appear at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court on 14 March.
A barn owl called Shiraz escaped during the alleged break-in but has since been recovered at a warehouse near Heathrow Airport.
In a previous statement, police said: "On Sunday 25 February we received a report that several animals had been killed and animal closures had been damaged at Capel Manor College.
"Officers visited the scene and viewed CCTV footage. A forensic examination was also carried out."
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Police are still appealing for witnesses and anyone with any information.