Chimpanzees at NY university to be covered by habeas corpus writ . Petition by animal rights group claims that chimpanzees are being used as research subjects in a study on human behavior and mental health ; they say the animals have been subjected to "cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment"
Chimpanzees at NY university to be covered by habeas corpus writ . Petition by animal rights group claims chimps are 'unlawfully detained ' University rep have been ordered to attend court to respond to petition . Ruling by judge effectively recognises the chimpanzees as legal humans . UPDATE : Since the publication of this story , the court order has been amended . The order is no longer a 'writ of habeas corpus ' , which has been struck out .