Theme park operator SeaWorld has finally come clean and admitted it entered the murky world of espionage to keep tabs on animal rights activists.
This is the first time that SeaWorld has publicly acknowledged employees posed as activists to spy on the activities of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.
That much was admitted by SeaWorld CEO Joel Manby but no apology was offered.
"This activity was undertaken in connection with efforts to maintain the safety and security of employees, customers and animals in the face of credible threats," Manby said.
Manby said the company started an internal investigation when PETA made spying allegations last year.
"We recognize the need to ensure that all of our security and other activities align with our core values and ethical standards."
Those allegations centered on the role of SeaWorld employee Paul McComb, who, under a false name, had incited PETA members to break the law with calls to take ‘direct action.’
"The tawdry orca sideshows and despicable spying tactics are sinking SeaWorld’s ship," a PETA statement said in response.
