Two men from Arkansas are facing significant fines and potential prison sentences after admitting to illegally possessing a tiger cub.
The tiger cub, named Fred, was spotted in a residential area of Conway in March 2023. Since then, Keidrick Damond Usifo from Conway and Deon Johnson from Little Rock have both pleaded guilty to charges related to the unlawful possession and concealment of the cub.
According to state officials, on April 17, 2023, an agent from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) received a report about a man keeping a tiger in his backyard in Conway. Additionally, an anonymous tip was posted on the AGFC’s website about a tiger cub being offered for sale in the same area. The Big Cat Public Safety Act, enacted in December 2022, prohibits private ownership and breeding of big cats.
This case marks the first prosecution under the new law.
Fred has since found refuge at the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Arkansas.
Tanya Smith, President of Turpentine Creek, remarked, “Fred’s story highlights the ongoing crisis of private big cat ownership in the United States. While Fred’s future is now secure with us, many other big cats remain at risk. This case underscores the importance of enforcing laws like the Big Cat Public Safety Act to protect both animals and people.”
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and providing sanctuary for big cats and other exotic animals in need, while also educating the public about wildlife conservation.
Officials noted that violations of the Big Cat Public Safety Act can result in up to five years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
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