Genival Francisco De Jesus, a 53-year-old man from Tangará da Serra, Brazil, was arrested by the Civil Police after killing and consuming a pigeon in a public area known as Praça da Bíblia. This incident, which occurred on February 24, gained significant attention on social media, resulting in public outrage. The police initiated a search for the individual following the viral response to the event, leading to his apprehension on Thursday morning near the plaza.

Upon questioning, De Jesus admitted to the act, stating he typically comes to the plaza to feed the birds. His confession came as police confirmed his prior criminal record, which includes homicide and theft. Notably, he was wearing an electronic ankle monitor at the time of the incident, indicating he was already under legal supervision. The police highlighted that although he will be charged for his actions against the bird, the penalties for such offenses may be relatively lenient under current laws governing animal cruelty.

The case has raised discussions about animal rights and the legal repercussions of such actions in Brazil. While the incident may appear trivial, it has sparked a broader debate on how society values animal life and the responsibilities of individuals towards wildlife. Local authorities have emphasized the need for stricter laws to prevent similar occurrences in the future, reflecting a growing concern for the treatment of animals in public spaces.