Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs) confiscated an 11-foot, 340-kg alligator, which was unlawfully kept at a residence in Florida. According to authorities’ Facebook post, the homeowner had constructed an extension to the house and installed an in-ground swimming pool for the approximately 30-year-old alligator. Shockingly, the owner allegedly permitted members of the public to enter the water and interact with the unrestrained alligator. The reptile, named Albert, as per CNN-affiliate WKBW, was reportedly considered a part of the family by its owner, Tony Cavallaro.
Alligator
Cavallaro disclosed to WKBW that his license to possess Albert had expired in 2021, and despite attempts to renew it with the Department of Environmental Conservation, he was unsuccessful.
Although Cavallaro claimed a strong bond with Albert, authorities clarified that keeping an alligator at home is illegal, irrespective of licensing status. Additionally, public contact with such animals is strictly prohibited, and any violation can lead to license revocation and the relocation of the animal, as stated by the department to WKBW.
Reports from the New York Post indicated that Cavallaro allegedly invited neighborhood children to swim with Albert, exacerbating concerns about public safety.
Upon removal from the residence, the alligator displayed numerous health issues, including blindness in both eyes and spinal complications.
Despite Cavallaro’s efforts to reclaim Albert through an online petition, authorities remain resolute in their decision to relocate the reptile to a caretaker until a suitable arrangement can be made. Social media has witnessed a surge of support for Cavallaro, with many asserting Albert’s gentle nature and lack of threat to humans, especially children, with whom it swam.
Amidst the ongoing controversy, Albert’s fate hangs in the balance, while Cavallaro continues to advocate for his beloved pet’s return.
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