2007 -- From Chicago Sun Times

NEW YORK -- A fake veterinarian collared in an undercover sting involving a kitten named Fred was sentenced to probation and mandatory psychiatric treatment.

Steven Vassall, 29, learned his sentence Tuesday in State Supreme Court after pleading guilty to scheming to defraud and to unauthorized practice of veterinary medicine.

His case drew worldwide attention for the role played by Fred the tabby, a rescued stray.

An investigator posing as Fred's owner had summoned Vassall to an apartment rigged with a hidden camera early last year and pretended the kitten needed to be neutered. Vassal told him he could do it for $135, then was arrested as he left carrying Fred in a box with the cash.

Vassall was accused of performing medical procedures on at least 14 animals, according to his July indictment. Under his plea bargain, he must attend an outpatient mental health program and refrain from involvement in nursing or animal care.

The victim was stitched up. The hero wore a badge to meet the news media. His big green eyes looked past a dozen TV cameras. A dozen camera operators made kissy noises.

Fred got a tiny badge on his collar, a Law Enforcement Appreciation Award and was honored at an adopt-a-thon benefit hosted by Mary Tyler Moore and Bernadette Peters.

A tabloid reporter asked the district attorney a tabloid question.

"This is the first, Nance," Mr. Hynes said. "First undercover cat."

Then Fred took a nap in the corner. Tomorrow was another day. His owner said neutering was still in the works.