Colorado Court Rules Elephants Are Not People in Bid for Freedom

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A Colorado court has ruled against an animal rights group's attempt to free five elephants from the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, affirming that elephants do not possess the same legal rights as humans. The Nonhuman Rights Project (NRP) filed for the elephants—Missy, Kimba, Lucky, LouLou, and Jambo—to be moved to a sanctuary, arguing that they were confined and showing signs of trauma.

The Colorado Supreme Court unanimously agreed with a lower district court ruling that the habeas corpus process only applies to "persons," not to nonhuman animals, regardless of their cognitive or emotional capacities. Justice Maria Berkenkotter emphasized that while the elephants were "majestic," the legal distinction remains clear.

The NRP had previously challenged similar cases, including one involving an elephant named Happy in New York, which was also denied. The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo defended its care for the elephants, labeling the lawsuit as "frivolous" and accusing NRP of exploiting the legal system for fundraising purposes.

In response to the ruling, NRP expressed disappointment, stating that it represents a significant injustice against the rights of intelligent animals.

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