Man jailed for beating monkey to death

A US man convicted of breaking into a zoo and brutally beating to death a Patas monkey will spend up to a year in prison, where he will take part in a treatment programme.

A judge sentenced 22-year-old Michael Watkins today for his role in the November 17 crime at the Boise Zoo in western Idaho state.

Watkins gave a brief statement before sentencing, apologising for his actions.

Fourth District Judge Lynn G. Norton rejected defence requests for probation.

Instead, Judge Norton said she wanted to impose a punishment fitting the crime that still enables Watkins to turn his life around.

Watkins was convicted of felony grand theft and animal cruelty, a misdemeanour in Idaho.

The judge will revisit sentencing after Watkins completes treatment.