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Dallas Zoo officials say change is underway after suspect stole 2 monkeys

After the recent incidents at the zoo, authorities say they are making big changes with their security system.

DALLAS — We are learning new details about a man accused of an unusual crime: stealing animals from the Dallas Zoo.

Authorities tell us the suspect said, once he is released from jail, he would do it again.

After the recent incidents at the zoo, authorities say they are making big changes with their security system.

"It’s been an unbelievable adventure in the last three to four weeks," said Gregg Hudson, the president of the Dallas Zoo.

So much has happened at the Dallas Zoo in the last month. But Hudson says he is relieved.

"So glad the animals are back and safe," said Hudson.

Dallas police say Davion Irvin stole two monkeys from the Dallas Zoo last week by hopping a fence at night and cutting a mesh barrier in the monkey’s habitat.

He is facing six counts of animal cruelty charges.

Now, the zoo is making changes.

"Looking at everything from fences, to cameras," said Hudson.

And surveillance video helped them get an image of the suspect fast…

"Came from some of the cameras that we had installed that week," said Hudson.

Zoo officials tell us its thanks to the quick-thinking employees at the Dallas Zoo that helped make the arrest of Davion Irvin. Zoo employees raised awareness about Davion’s mannerisms.

Court documents say Davion asked odd questions – about where to get monkeys and he told police, once he is released, he would steal animals from the zoo again.

"We are hoping the courts will put some sort of monitoring system on him," Gregg said.

In the meantime, the zoo is on alert.

"We have heightened security at night for sure," said Hudson.

Security is something Arun Agarwal, the president of Dallas Parks and Recreation says is a priority.

"The zoo is a crown jewel," said Agarwal.

Agarwal said he is working with the mayor to get more bond money to add security at the zoo and parks.

Davion remains in jail and has a $25,000 bond.

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