Alpha Genesis receives official warning from USDA inspection service

YEMASSEE, S.C., (WTOC) - The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has issued an official warning against the research center in Yemassee where 43 monkeys escaped back in November.

The USDA issued the warning to Alpha Genesis, Inc. on July 2nd, citing an alleged violation on November 22nd concerning outdoor housing facilities.

According to the warning notice, an inspection report documented that 22 cynomolgus monkeys died. A necropsy and histopathology findings show their deaths were consistent with exposure to carbon monoxide gas.

According to the warning, if the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has evidence of future violations, the company could face sanctions--including criminal prosecution.