Out of fear that Dr. Walter Palmer will fall victim to the same fate as Cecil the Lion, this Minnesota dentist has been placed under police protection.
Palmer, of course, has come under MAJOR fire this week after it became known that he paid $50,000 to go on a hunting expedition to Zimbabwe… during which he tracked and killed a nationally-protected and beloved lion named Cecil.
Palmer has admitted to this heinous act, making it clear that he believed he was following all legal rules and hunting guidelines in that region at that time.
The dentist has also expressed "regret" over how the incident went down.
Still, many have taken Palmer to task for the mere desire to spend his free time taking the life of an innocent animal, especially considering the coordinated way in which the hunt was set up for him.
In a reasoned, passionate response to the kill, Jimmy Kimmel broke down on national television.
In less reasoned, albeit equally passionate, responses, PETA called for Palmer to be hanged and Mia Farrow Tweeted his home address.
With protestors lining up outside his office and home in Eden Prairie, police have now placed Palmer under official protection.
Law enforcement officials have confirmed to TMZ that they will be doing regular drive-bys and check-ups on Palmer’s residence and in his neighborhood.
It is legal to peacefully gather and protest, of course, but cops will be on the lookout for anyone who crosses the line into violent behavior.