Two request public defenders in death of tigers

A Cape Girardeau couple charged with conspiracy in the deaths of four endangered tigers requested public defenders Thursday in a hearing in U.S. District Court. "My clients and I have agreed to disagree," said attorney Al Lowes, who had been representing Todd and Vicki Lantz.

Indictments against the two allege that in February 1998, Todd Lantz bought four tigers in Arkansas with the goal of bringing them to Cape Girardeau and selling them to someone who planned to kill the tigers.

Vicki Lantz is accused of preparing false paperwork indicating the Lantz operation was donating the tigers, when in fact they were paid $4,000.

Last week, the Lantzes were released on $25,000 bonds after appearing before U.S. District Judge Lewis M. Blanton.

"This case needs to move along," Blanton said, re-scheduling the couple's arraignment for 1:30 p.m. Tuesday.