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ZANESVILLE (AP) -- The widow of a suicidal Ohio man who released dozens of exotic animals that were subsequently killed by
authorities is threatening to take legal action as she fights for custody of five surviving creatures.

The Columbus Zoo began caring for three leopards, two primates and a bear under state-issued quarantine after the October animal escape near Zanesville. One of the leopards was euthanized 10 days ago after it was struck by a door lowering between two enclosures.

The Times Recorder in Zanesville reports an attorney for Marian Thompson wrote to the Ohio Department of Agriculture after the incident, demanding a previously requested appeal hearing on the quarantine order and
medical testing to prove the animals don't need to be quarantined.

A spokeswoman said the department was reviewing the letter.

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