OPELOUSAS – A 67-year-old Opelousas woman was arrested for shooting her llama.
Deputies say that on February 15, 2019, officers responded to Montgomery Road in Opelousas in reference to an animal attacking the owner.
According to the report, Madeline Bourgeois was working in her pasture when her pet llama attacked her. Bourgeois told deputies that she hit the llama repeatedly in an attempt to stop the attack. Once out the gate, she was finally able to exit the pasture.
Deputies say that Bourgeois then went into her home and retrieved her gun, returning to the pasture and shooting the llama three times.
Deputies say that upon arriving at the home, they observed the injured llama limping in the pasture. Animal control was contacted and took possession of the injured animal. X-rays taken by animal control showed three bullets located in the llama. The animal was taken to LSU Veterinary Clinic in Baton Rouge for evaluation.
“According to the law, Bourgeois had every right to defend herself while being attacked but was no longer in danger after escaping the pasture,” Sheriff Guidroz said. “Ms. Bourgeois retrieved a gun and then returned and shot the llama, which constitutes the charge of felony cruelty to animals. Bourgeois should have called a vet or animal control for assistance.”
