Walter Palmer, the world's most-hated man for killing Zimbabwe's famous lion, Cecil, issued a statement that he has not yet been contacted by Zimbabwen authorities and believed his hunt was legal. Huffington Post reports Palmer's companion and wildlife guide, Theo Bronkhorst was charged for "failing to supervise, control and take reasonable steps to prevent an unlawful hunt."
In his statement on Tuesday, the American dentist claimed he had all the requirements needed for a legal hunt.
"In early July, I was in Zimbabwe on a bow hunting trip for big game. I hired several professional guides and they secured all proper permits. To my knowledge, everything about this trip was legal and properly handled and conducted," Palmer wrote. "I relied on the expertise of my local professional guides to ensure a legal hunt."
"I have not been contacted by authorities in Zimbabwe or in the U.S. about this situation, but will assist them in any inquiries they may have," he added.
Palmer reportedly bribed wildlife guides $50,000 to allow him hunt the lion.
Bronkhorst, a local hunter pleaded not guilty and bailed $1,000 to skip prison. He deposited his passport to the court, where he was ordered to return on August 5 for trial.
Once found guilty, Bronkhorst will be charged $20,000 and 10 years in jail.
Honest Ndlovu, a game park owner who was reportedly accused for assisting Palmer will also face charges when arrested.
Just like other countries, Zimbabwe issues permits for legal hunting to raise fund for wildlife conservation.
"Sustainable trophy hunting is part of well-managed wildlife conservation. It creates incentives for people to look after wildlife," said Professional Hunters' Association of South Africa chief executive, Adri Kitshoff. "It's easy to fall into the trap of emotions and not focus on facts."
According to Australia-based Saving The Lion Foundation chairman, Edward Bourke, the tragic death of Cecil the Lion shows the danger of legal hunting.
