Man With Rare Genetic Appetite Disorder Pleads In Food Thefts
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. (AP) — A California man with a rare genetic disorder that gives him an insatiable appetite has pleaded no contest to breaking into houses to steal food and other belongings.
The San Luis Obispo County district attorney says in a statement that because of the condition it allowed 20-year-old Tyler Jarvis to plead to five misdemeanors and get probation and treatment. He had previously been charged with felonies that could have led to jail time.
Prosecutors say Jarvis has "Prader-Willi Syndrome" and they looked closely at his case to reach a just outcome. They say people who have it and are not monitored will often badly overeat and often go to great lengths seeking food.
Jarvis has agreed to pay restitution to three victims, serve three years' probation and get residential treatment.
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