Man Charged After Humane Society Seizes Exotic Animals in New York

Chester Miles, 29, faces charges after the Humane Society of Greater Rochester seized at least 23 exotic animals from Sibley Square in Rochester, New York, last month. Concerns were raised in early April about the welfare of reptiles and small animals at Miles Exotic Pet Rescue. Following an eviction, property management contacted Lollypop Farm Humane Law Enforcement on April 12 when abandoned animals were discovered.

Investigators found a variety of animals in distress, including three bearded dragons, two iguanas, a ball python, a red-tailed boa, a skink, a sulcata tortoise, five dead fish, a king snake, four geckos, two rabbits, and two rats. Many were deprived of water and proper heating. Tragically, a rabbit died from emaciation and neglect, and a red-tailed boa had to be euthanized due to severe wounds and health issues.

Miles is charged with six counts of failure to provide proper sustenance, each carrying a potential penalty of up to one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. His arraignment is scheduled for June 6.

Reno Di Domenico, vice president for Humane Law Enforcement at Lollypop Farm, praised those who reported the neglect. “No animal should be without food, water, or a safe environment. Firsthand reports from good Samaritans are critical in helping us build our case and bring animal abusers to justice,” he said in a statement. Since the seizure, five animals have been adopted, while another 10 are being cared for by Lollypop Farm and the Seneca Park Zoo.

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