Terminal cancer patient wants seized monkey back

NORTH VERSAILLES, Pa. - A suburban Pittsburgh man has been fined for illegally possessing a monkey he says acted as a helper for him and his cancer-stricken wife.

Samuel Govannucci says he got the small monkey, named Kira, about 10 years ago as he was recovering from an accident. He says the creature became more important when his wife was diagnosed with leukemia.

But the Pennsylvania Game Commission seized the monkey during a raid in April. On Wednesday Govannucci was found guilty of possession of a monkey without a permit.

The game commission says it rarely grants permits for monkeys because they can carry diseases potentially fatal to humans.

Amanda Govannucci says she has hearing problems and Kira would alert her when someone was at the door.

The 23-year-old has been told by doctors she has six months to live, CBS station KDKA reports. Amanda Govannucci calls Kira a therapy monkey and claims she needs the monkey to survive.

"I'm taking medication just to calm me down because I can't cope without her," she said.

The Govannuccis say they'll appeal.

"They think it's a big joke to take a dying woman's therapy animal away," Sam Govannucci said. "It's not a joke. They're playing with someone's life."

[IvyLeague27]

The new husband is 46 yrs. old.

[StanLee3058]

I live in Pennsylvania and I can tell you that MOST game wardens in PA think of themselves as gods and givers of life and death. Their egos are as big as their mouths! The majority of game wardens in PA (probably most states) couldn't get hired as security guards or Walmart greeters so they became game wardens with attitudes. Take away their gun and badge and they turn into naval lint. They truly are pathetic!

[ajk_cbsnews]

Typical of government dealings with citizens who have no clout! I hope I live to see the coming revolution!

[connie4323]

I really feel for this family. There are many different kinds of animals that are "helper" animals. This is a cruel thing for them and for the monkey. She's been with them for 10 years and most certainly is terrified at her new surroundings. Have some empathy please!

[queenieb187]

i agree 100%...but..how have they had this monkey for 10 yrs and the wife is only 23? maybe husband had it as a teen?? just wondering/ but ya they should be allowed to keep it, it obviously has no diseases since it has been owned for 10 yrs.

[Void-Master]

A word to government officials at all levels: Knock off the BS. You're not that important.