SeaWorld Suspends Employee Accused of Infiltrating Animal Rights Group

"SeaWorld said on Thursday that it has suspended a San Diego-based employee while the theme park's lawyers investigate accusations that he infiltrated an animal rights group in a bid to undermine its work.

People For the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) claims that SeaWorld deployed a man identifying himself as Thomas Jones to masquerade as an activist in the San Diego area, taking part in protests and organizational meetings.

"These allegations, if true, are not consistent with the values of the SeaWorld organization and will not be tolerated," Joel Manby, CEO of SeaWorld Entertainment Inc., said in a written statement. "We have placed the employee in question on paid administrative leave pending the findings of the investigation.""

Marty Graham reports for Reuters July 16. 2015.