Tonia Haddix, the infamous Missouri woman who once faked her chimpanzee’s death, is making headlines again — this time from behind bars.
The 55-year-old exotic animal broker and “Chimp Crazy” personality was arrested Saturday and transferred to Phelps County Jail after failing to comply with court orders to pay $224,000 in legal fees owed to PETA.
TMZ has obtained her latest mug shot, showing Haddix looking visibly disheveled and downcast — a stark contrast to her past defiance in court.
???? Another Chimp Found in Her Basement
In a shocking twist, authorities say that during a surprise raid, they discovered yet another chimpanzee secretly living in her basement.
According to court documents obtained by Rolling Stone, the “mature female chimp” was found inside a makeshift enclosure with:
- Blankets
- A Gatorade bottle
- Half-eaten candy
Animal welfare agents safely removed the chimp, though the raid was originally unrelated to the animal.
⚖️ Not Her First Chimp Scandal
This incident adds a dramatic new chapter to Haddix’s already controversial history.
Back in 2021, she faked the death of her beloved chimpanzee Tonka, attempting to keep him from being seized and sent to a sanctuary. Tonka was later found alive, hidden away at her property.
Her wild stunt made national headlines — and sparked a long-standing legal battle with PETA, who continues to pursue justice for the animals in her care.
????♂️ Legal Trouble Mounts
While the hidden chimp discovery wasn’t the reason for her arrest, prosecutors are now using it to push for her continued detention until her sentencing, scheduled for August 7.
Adding to the legal chaos, Haddix’s husband is also facing possible arrest after he reportedly tried to stall officers during the search of their home.
????️ A Wild Saga Continues…
From faking a chimp’s death to keeping another hidden in her basement, Tonia Haddix’s bizarre legal saga just keeps escalating. With sentencing around the corner, her fate — and the future of the animals she kept — now hangs in the balance.
???? What Do You Think?
Should people like Haddix be banned for life from owning exotic animals?
Drop your thoughts in the comments — and follow The Pop Radar (TPR) for the latest in shocking celeb stories and bizarre legal drama.
