Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Admits to Dumping Dead Bear Cub in Central Park
Candidate Says He Mistakenly Hit Bear With Car, Drove Body Miles Away
Kennedy Jr.'s Actions Draw Criticism From Environmental Groups
Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. admitted on Sunday that he had left a dead bear cub carcass in Central Park after hitting the animal with his car.
In a social media video, Kennedy Jr. said he had been driving in upstate New York when he struck the bear, which he initially thought was a raccoon. He said he put the bear's body in his trunk and drove it to Central Park, where he left it in a wooded area.
Kennedy Jr.'s actions have drawn criticism from environmental groups, who say he should have reported the incident to authorities. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is investigating the matter.
"This was a reckless and irresponsible act by Mr. Kennedy," said DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos. "He should have immediately reported the incident to the DEC so that we could investigate and determine the best course of action."
Kennedy Jr. has defended his actions, saying he was trying to prevent the bear's body from being scavenged by other animals. He also said he was not aware that he was required to report the incident to the DEC.
The incident has raised questions about Kennedy Jr.'s fitness to be president. Some critics have pointed to his previous statements about environmental issues, which they say show that he does not have a strong commitment to protecting the environment.
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