Judge extends zookeeper’s deadline to challenge convictions

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — A former Oklahoma zookeeper who was sentenced to 22 years in prison for a murder-for-hire plot and federal wildlife violations has been granted more time to argue why his lawsuit challenging the conviction shouldn’t be dismissed.

Joseph Maldonado-Passage, also known as “Joe Exotic,” filed a federal lawsuit against federal agencies and witnesses, claiming he was convicted based on false and perjured testimony. A federal judge decided to recommend dismissing his lawsuit and provided an April 28th deadline for objection filing. The Oklahoman reported that U.S. District Judge Scott Palk extended that deadline to May 28th after Maldonado-Passage said he’s isolated at a Texas medical facility.