Python owner not guilty over boys' deaths

A Canadian man whose python escaped from his pet shop and killed two young boys has been cleared of criminal negligence causing death.

Noah Barthe, four, and his six-year-old brother Connor were at a sleepover at Jean-Claude Savoie's flat above the shop, called Reptile Ocean, in August 2013.

The African rock python got out through a ventilation duct in Campbellton, New Brunswick, and dropped into the living room where the two boys were sleeping.

A pathologist who carried out post-mortem examinations said both boys had died of asphyxiation.

Image Caption: The python escaped the shop through a ventilation duct

They were also covered in puncture wounds from snake bites.

Mr Savoie's three-year-old son, who had been sleeping in another room, was unharmed.

Leslie Matchim, Mr Savoie's lawyer, said he had thought the snake was too big to get into the duct, and so did not think it needed securing.

Mr Matchim said: "There is no need to install a barrier if you've come to that conclusion in your mind.

"Accidents happen, but not everyone who causes an accident is guilty of criminal negligence causing death."

Image Caption: The boys were killed by an African rock python. Pic: File

The pet shop owner - who was a close friend of the brothers' family - wept in court as the jury in Campbellton delivered its verdict.

Noah and Connor had apparently stayed over regularly.

The boys' mother, Mandy Trecartin, reportedly showed little emotion as she left court and did not speak to reporters.

Crown prosecutor Pierre Roussel said it was too soon to think about whether to appeal, but said the family found the verdict disappointing.

Mr Matchim said Mr Savoie had looked after the snake for 11 years after being asked to take it by the Canadian Wildlife Service.

African rock pythons are typically between three and three-and-a-half metres long, and weigh between 44 and 55 kilogrammes (100lbs - 120lbs).

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http://betternews.co.uk/python-owner-not-guilty-over-boys039-deaths