Criminal charges possible for alligator owners - New York News | NYC Breaking News

Criminal charges possible for alligator owners

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MYFOXNY.COM -

Animal control officers have trapped alligators five times in the last two weeks on Long Island.

It is illegal to own or house an alligator or any crocodelia in New York State. The fine for owning an alligator is a maximum of $250. But releasing one is a criminal offense.

"They are facing abandonment with up to a year in prison and or a $1000 fine... Endangering the public-- that is also criminal. And with the colder weather, by leaving a reptile outside , which is basically a death sentence, they face neglect and abuse charges which is also criminal and results in misdemeanor charges, Suffolk County SPCA Chief Roy Gross told GDNY on Tuesday.

Gross does not believe the same person is releasing the alligators.

"Two in Nassau County then in Mastic Beach, that's quite a distance away. Then on a golf course in Suffolk County and an Applebees in Shirley. That one was placed in a tupper ware. The SPCA is offering a $2K reward for the person responsible for this act," said Gross.

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