Wisconsin man fined $50, keeps gun after shooting roommate while teasing cat with laser sight

A Wisconsin man who accidentally shot his roommate was fined $50 last week, but will be allowed to keep his gun.

The La Crosse Tribunereported that 22-year-old Vaughn Rothering was teasing his cat with the laser sight on his 9mm pistol when the gun discharged, striking his roommate in the ankle.

In return for a guilty plea, prosecutors requested that Rothering only be required to pay a fine. He is also eligible to have his felony expunged, which would allow him to lawfully own firearms.

Rothering's total court costs totaled $591, including a $50 fine. He was also expected to pay restitution, but the amount had not been determined.

“You could have easily killed your friend,” La Crosse County Circuit Judge Ramona Gonzalez told the suspect. “You’ve probably punished yourself more than we could ever punish you.”

“I feel terrible about it,” Rothering reportedly said.