Rewards Grow For Info In Llama Killing

By JOSH POLTILOVE The Tampa Tribune

Published: Feb 5, 2008

TAMPA - Two Hillsborough County business owners have put together a reward fund for information leading to the arrest of those involved in the death of a llama at Gaither High School.

Mitch Lockler and Robin Knapp each put $500 in the Llama Reward/Relief Fund after the death of an 8-month-old llama named Adonis. The llama had a fractured skull and died Wednesday in a Gaither High School barn.

No arrests have been made, and there are no new developments in the case, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office said Monday.

Lockler said he hopes people will donate to the fund. Money not used as a reward will help pay for a new llama, he said.

"This whole scenario really, really, really bothered me," Lockler said. "It was right in my community, and I've just got a problem with it. The thought of somebody bashing this poor animal in the head, it really, really, really disturbed me."

People can donate to the Llama Reward/Relief Fund at Superior Bank in Carrollwood, 13246 N. Dale Mabry Highway.

Separately, a $500 reward is being offered through the school's crime watch, and a $500 reward is being offered through Florida Voices for Animals, a nonprofit organization designed to educate people about animal abuse.

Adonis was one of about 25 animals living on Gaither's campus and was part of the agricultural department.

Reporter Josh Poltilove can be reached at (813) 259-7691 or jpoltilove@tampatrib.com.