Woman in Legal Trouble After Allegedly Sticking Hand Into Tiger Enclosure

A reckless act at a New Jersey zoo leads to criminal charges for a woman who allegedly put her hand inside a tiger enclosure.

At a Glance

Zyair J. Dennis, 24, charged with defiant trespassing after allegedly sticking her hand into a tiger enclosure at Cohanzick Zoo
Dennis is accused of reaching into tiger’s cage, narrowly avoiding being bitten
The incident occurred on August 18, with Dennis also reportedly reaching into a bear enclosure the same day
Video footage of the incident led to Dennis’s identification and subsequent charges

Woman Faces Charges After Dangerous Zoo Stunt

A New Jersey woman has been charged after allegedly climbing into a restricted area at the Cohanzick Zoo in Bridgeton and reaching into both a tiger enclosure and a bear enclosure. Zyair J. Dennis, 24, of Millville, now faces legal consequences for her alleged dangerous actions that put both herself and the animals at risk.

The incident, which reportedly occurred on August 18, was captured on video by zoo patrons. Footage shows Dennis climbing over a wooden fence and approaching the tiger’s enclosure. In a heart-stopping moment, she reached toward the tiger, which attempted to bite her hand. The video shows that Dennis quickly retreated, narrowly avoiding injury.

A 24-year-old woman is now charged after police say she climbed a fence and approached a tiger enclosure at a New Jersey zoo. https://t.co/MqyunbtUfP

— FOX 29 (@FOX29philly) August 27, 2024

Multiple Violations and Public Assistance

Bridgeton police charged Dennis with defiant trespassing and two city ordinance violations related to climbing fences within the zoo. She allegedly attempted to reach into both the tiger enclosure and the bear enclosure adjacent to it.

The investigation began on August 20 after city officials received videos from concerned zoo visitors. Bridgeton Police turned to social media for public assistance in identifying Dennis, posting video and photos of the incident. The strategy proved effective, as tips from the public led to Dennis’s swift identification.

A Pattern of Dangerous Behavior

Reports indicate that Dennis not only approached the tiger enclosure but also entered a bear exhibit on the same day. This pattern of behavior underscores the severity of the situation and the potential danger to both the individual and the animals.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of respecting safety barriers at zoos and wildlife facilities. These enclosures are designed to protect both visitors and animals, and disregarding them can lead to tragic consequences.