2.2K Views 3 years ago

“Tiger King” Star Doc Antle Faces Conviction for Wildlife Trafficking

Author Bio

Josie is a passionate nutritionist specializing in weight management, plant-based diets, and overall health. With... Read More

“Tiger King” personality Bhagavan “Doc” Antle has been found guilty of wildlife trafficking, according to an announcement by Virginia’s Attorney General’s Office. Antle, a central figure in the popular Netflix documentary series, was charged with illegally acquiring endangered lion cubs for his South Carolina zoo, Myrtle Beach Safari.

Known for his role in the tumultuous world of “Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness,” Antle’s case has drawn significant public attention. His conviction includes two felony counts of wildlife trafficking and conspiracy to traffic wildlife. However, he was acquitted of five counts of animal cruelty, while four additional charges were dismissed.

At the heart of Antle’s prosecution is the claim that the commercial success of Myrtle Beach Safari’s petting zoo led to a steady “cub pipeline” from Virginia to South Carolina. This lucrative operation allegedly fueled Antle’s purchases of immature lion cubs from Wilson’s Wild Animal Park, according to Prosecutor Michelle Welch.

Interestingly, when Antle and Keith Wilson, the park’s former owner, initiated their business deal in 2015, the sale and purchase of lions were legal. But with the lion’s endangered species designation in December 2015, the rules changed, permitting the trading of lions only between certified zoos and wildlife preserves involved in recognized breeding programs. Despite these changes, three illegal cub exchanges occurred between 2017 and 2019.

The charges against Antle were part of a larger investigation, resulting in the seizure of 119 animals from Wilson’s roadside zoo in 2019. The confiscated animals included lions, tigers, bears, camels, goats, and water buffalo after a judge determined they were not receiving adequate care. Wilson, too, faces charges of animal cruelty and selling endangered species, with a hearing scheduled soon.

Antle’s defense attorney, Erin Harrigan, argued that his prosecution was politically motivated due to the growing public backlash against exploiting wild animals for entertainment. According to Harrigan, the lion cubs were gifted to Antle, who sent donations to Wilson for expanding tiger habitats. However, this viewpoint was not enough to acquit Antle.

Despite his conviction, Antle remains free on bond until sentencing on September 14. He potentially faces up to 20 years in prison. This case highlights the growing public sentiment against the exploitation of endangered species and animal cruelty, pointing to a shift in society’s view on wildlife Conservation and the ethics of zoos and wildlife parks.