Best headline ever

A reader forwarded me this story along with this message:

It’s as if one of your characters leapt from the page and entered real life.

I agree. 

In fact, I could probably use this story as the basis for an entire novel.

The story, from The Huffington Post:

Teen Burglar Kills Goldfish Because He Didn't Want To Leave Any Witnesses, Cops Say

Here’s my favorite part of the story:

When the homeowners returned, not only did they find their belongings stolen, but found their goldfish had been poisoned. Someone had poured hot sauce, mustard, ketchup and spices into their fish tank, and all three fish were dead.

Three teenagers were arrested for the burglary, according to the Daily Herald, and a 16-year-old involved with the incident reportedly told officers he "didn't want to leave any witnesses," so he killed the fish.

I can’t help but wonder if the alleged burglars will be punished more harshly if found guilty because of the killing of the fish.

I know they were only goldfish, and I know it sounds ridiculous, but I kind of think they should be.

If not for cruelty, at least for stupidity.