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BOISE, Idaho • An Idaho man convicted of breaking into a Boise zoo and beating to death a Patas monkey will spend up to a year in state prison, where he'll take part in a treatment program.

A state judge sentenced 22-year-old Michael Watkins on Thursday for his role in the Nov. 17 crime that caused shock and outrage in Idaho's capitol city and beyond.

Watkins gave a brief statement before sentencing, apologizing for his actions.

Fourth District Judge Lynn G. Norton rejected defense attorney requests for probation. Instead, Norton said she wanted to impose a punishment fitting the crime that still enables Watkins to turn his life around.

Watkins was convicted of felony grand theft and animal cruelty, a misdemeanor in Idaho.

The judge will revisit sentencing after Watkins completes treatment.