CAPE CORAL, Fla. — A Florida man was among eight people accused of snake trafficking, authorities said Thursday.
Paul Miller, 48, of Cape Coral, was issued a notice to appear for second-degree misdemeanor violations that included cage or secondary containment, unsafe or unsanitary conditions for captive wildlife, improper cage labeling and cage or secondary containment, according to WGCU Radio reported.
Nearly 200 snakes consisting of 24 species from seven different regions were purchased by the eight people cited, WBBH-TV reported.
ILLEGAL SSSS-SALES? 🐍 🚨 FWC said charges were filed on Thursday for eight people suspected of snake trafficking. One of those suspects lives right here in Cape Coral. ⬇ https://t.co/C6JExQoxSA
— NBC2 (@NBC2) January 14, 2023
“Some of these snakes are among the most dangerous in the world,” Maj. Randy Bowlin said in a statement released by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. “Florida’s rules and laws are in place to protect the public and prevent tragedies from occurring.”
According to the FWC, Miller is a large importer of snakes, WGCU reported. The agency added that Miller is a large importer of snakes, a wildlife wholesaler and the owner of Calusa Animal Company.
One of the species the FWC accused Miller of selling was the inland taipan, a reptile native to Australia, WBBH reported. According to the Australian Museum, the snake is one of the world’s most venomous.
The FWC said Miller is a large importer of snakes, a well-established wildlife wholesaler and the owner of Calusa Animal Company. In addition to multiple violations regarding caging, labeling and husbandry, FWC investigators also documented instances where Miller aided in the falsification of required experience hours documentation.
No one answered at Miller’s residence when WBBH went to his home for a comment.
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