§2799.4.  Liability for unauthorized release of certain animals, birds, or aquatic species

A.  Any person who, without permission from the owner or agent in possession, releases or attempts to release an animal, a bird, or an aquatic species which has been lawfully confined for agriculture, science, research, commerce, public propagation, protective custody, or education shall be liable:

(1)  To the owner or agent exercising possession of the animal, bird, or aquatic species for damages and replacement costs, including the cost of restoring the animal, bird, or aquatic species to confinement and to its health prior to being released.  

(2)  For damages to property caused by the release or attempted release of the animal, bird, or aquatic species.  

B.  If the release or attempted release causes the failure of an experiment, the person causing the release or attempted release shall be liable for all costs of repeating the experiment, including replacement of the animal, bird, or aquatic species.  

Acts 1990, No. 205, §1.