The Penguins, the target of scorn from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals earlier this season, are now drawing praise from the animal rights group for their handling of the catfish-throwing incident at Game 1 of the Stanley Cup final Monday at PPG Paints Arena.
PETA executive vice president Tracy Reiman released the following statement Tuesday supporting the team, arena staff and misdemeanor charges brought against Jacob Waddell, of Nolensville, Tenn. after he was removed from the arena for throwing a catfish onto the ice during the game between the Penguins and Nashville Predators.
Whether catfish or cat, it's never acceptable to toss any sensitive, intelligent animal's body onto the ice during a hockey game. PETA appreciates PPG Paints Arena's swift action to eject the fan and have him charged with several crimes, which will remind all sports fans that this offensive behavior will not be tolerated. We trust that all NHL arenas will follow suit.
It’s worth noting that Pittsburgh police independently charged Mr. Waddell after his ejection from the arena.
PETA was upset with the Penguins earlier this season after live penguins were included in pre-game festivities at the Feb. 25 Stadium Series game against the Philadelphia Flyers. The NHL was responsible for the production aspects of the game, but the team nonetheless received a letter from PETA denouncing the appearance of birds from the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.
Adam Bittner: abittner@post-gazette.com and Twitter, @fugimaster24.
First Published: May 30, 2017, 10:54 p.m.
