PETA Statement: Death of Hope Elephants Founder, Dr. James Laurita

For Immediate Release:
September 10, 2014

When people ignore experts’ recommendation to keep a constant, secure barrier between elephants and humans (known as “protected contact”), the consequences can be disastrous. Dr. James Laurita’s death must serve as a wake-up call that “free contact” easily becomes deadly contact—that’s why PETA is urging Hope Elephants to send these elephants to a true, accredited sanctuary in a more appropriate, warmer climate. There, they would be handled safely and humanely and be able to explore vast territories in the company of other elephants.