40 baby mice dipped in resin Gainesville, FL (US) Incident Date: Sunday, Mar 31, 1996 County: Alachua Local Map: available Disposition: Alleged Alleged: Vincent Gothard

Case ID: 2452 Classification: Mutilation/Torture Animal: rodent/small mammal (pet) View more cases in FL (US) Login to Watch this Case

Vincent Gothard, a University of Florida senior who dipped 40 live baby mice into resin, then cut the material into cubes for an art project, was charged with animal cruelty.

Gothard, a 25-year-old fine arts major, faces up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine if convicted.

Mr. Gothard's lawyer, Robe Rush, defended the art project, saying the mice died instantly and were destined to become food for other animals anyway.

He also maintained that the project was " clearly artistic expression and probably protected by the First Amendment."

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www.english.upen.edu

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