Reston Zoo director charged with animal cruelty

WASHINGTON – The 26-year-old director of the Reston Zoo was arrested Friday.

Meghan Mogensen of Silver Spring was charged with animal cruelty and possession of a controllled substance after alleged improper treatment of a sick wallaby.

Fairfax County animal control officers were notified of a suspicious circumstance after the death of an adult wallaby at the facility in the 1200 block of Hunter Mill Road in Reston.

Officers began investigating Jan. 26, relating to the allegations of improper treatment of injured animals and improper use of euthanisia drugs.

Officers obtained evidence Feb. 16 during a search of the facility.

Animal control officers are working jointly with the USDA, VDACS and other entities.

The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Solvers by phone at 1-866-411- TIPS/8477, e-mail at http://www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or text “TIP187” plus your message to CRIMES/274637 or call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131.

Follow WTOP on Twitter.

(Copyright 2012 by WTOP. All Rights Reserved.)

Federal News Network Logo
Log in to your WTOP account for notifications and alerts customized for you.

Sign up