Yemassee Faces Unusual Escape of Monkeys from Research Facility
YEMASSEE — A remarkable event unfolded in Yemassee on November 6, when a group of 43 female monkeys escaped from the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center. This is not the first time that monkeys have made a break for freedom from this facility, known for its breeding of primates for medical research. The escape occurred around 1 p.m., and as of Friday morning, none of the monkeys have been captured.
The Alpha Genesis facility, located on Castle Hall Road, houses a staggering 6,701 primates, according to a federal inspection completed earlier this year. The facility has had security challenges in the past, including a similar incident in 2016 when 19 monkeys managed to make their getaway but were returned after several hours.
Search Efforts Underway
Yemassee police are actively involved in the search to recapture the escaped monkeys. Police Chief Gregory Alexander reported that the department is using thermal imaging cameras to assist in tracking down the animals. In an effort to lure them back, traps have been set by the company.
Chief Alexander clarified that the escaped monkeys do not pose a threat to the public: “We strongly advise residents to keep doors and windows securely closed to prevent the primates from entering homes.” The police urge anyone who encounters the monkeys not to attempt to capture them but to call 911 instead.
Weather Complicates Capture Efforts
Alpha Genesis CEO Greg Westergaard mentioned that adverse weather conditions, including heavy rain, have been affecting search and rescue operations. He explained that the simian escapees tend to hunker down in poor weather, making them harder to find.
The escape followed a minor lapse in security when a caretaker accidentally left two doors unsecured during a cleaning routine. Fortunately, the juvenile monkeys are noted to be disease-free and had not yet participated in any testing due to their age.
Community Reaction
Local resident and business owner, Charlotte Murray, who runs the Lowcountry Living Room, expressed that she is not particularly worried about the incident. Living near the Alpha Genesis facility, she said, “We have seen them on the side of the road before. We’ve seen them in trees… we are very familiar with them being around.”
In the meantime, Yemassee police are coordinating with state agricultural and wildlife officials to deal with the situation effectively. The event has garnered mixed reactions online, with some residents expressing curiosity about the monkeys while others advised caution.
A History of Security Issues
Alpha Genesis has had its share of scrutiny over the years regarding its security and safety practices. Previous inspections have uncovered multiple violations, including issues with animal enclosures and maintaining proper living conditions. In a report from January 2023, federal regulators identified five non-critical violations pertaining to the facility’s maintenance and care practices.
The facility has also faced repercussions from past incidents, including being fined $12,600 by federal authorities for several violations related to animal welfare that took place between December 2014 and February 2016. Animal welfare advocates have criticized these penalties as inadequate, citing concerns over the treatment of animals at the facility.
Conclusion
The escape of 43 monkeys is a troubling reminder of the challenges faced by facilities that house animals for research. As search efforts continue, residents are advised to stay vigilant while authorities work to bring the monkeys back home safely. In the midst of their freedom, these primates are drawing attention to the ongoing dialogue about animal welfare and the responsibilities of research institutions.
