The Tiger King

Netflix recently released its docuseries Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, and Madness in March of 2020. The series gave viewers an escape from their everyday lives and allowed them to take a peak into the life of Joseph Allen Maldonado-Passage, otherwise known as Joe Exotic. If you or someone you know is involved in an animal regulations dispute, contact one of our expert Tampa attorneys at Pallegar Law, P.A.

Joe Exotic is most famously known from this series, but also from Greater Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park, which he formerly owned and managed. It was here at his animal park that the documentary took place, as it followed the big cat breeder through his everyday schedule. Included in this series were his multiple quarrels with the Tampa Big Cat Rescue owner, Carole Baskin. Throughout this documentary, we watch as Joe Exotic works through everyday accusations from spectators, and troubles with his big cats and coworkers, only to in the end be sentenced to 22 years in federal prison. Joe was charged with two counts of murder-for-hire, nine counts of violating the Endangered Species Act, and eight counts of falsifying records. Throughout his trial, Joe Exotic was still trying to maintain over 200 big cats and exotic animals, before a former partner took over. Joe Exotic is now in search of a skilled lawyer to help get his park back.

As the series came to an end, viewers started asking some important questions, including: how did Joe Exotic end up with that many big cats to begin with? While Joe Exotic was operating in Oklahoma, which allows any animal to be owned with a permit, there are various Florida rules and regulations in place in order to prevent a Florida Tiger King. According to the Florida Administrative Code, a Class 1 animal, which includes big cats along with bears, crocodiles, etc., are illegal to possess unless they were owned before August 1st, 1980. Class 1 possession would also require $2,000,000 of liability insurance, eight feet high fence, and 1,000 hours of experience in the care and feeding of these animals. Class 2 animals, which include bobcats, cougars, alligators, wolves, and a few more, require a permit. Permit violations can result in fines and jail time, while repeat violators may be charged with a criminal felony. When facing any of the above charges, a lawyer should be contacted immediately.

Tampa is home to a few of the top destinations for exotic animal experiences, including Busch Gardens, Croc Encounters, and the now famous Big Cat Rescue, which is managed by Carole Baskin of Tiger King. While these spots bring large tourist attraction, they also leave room for rule violation. If you or someone you know is being accused of violating these rules, contact Pallegar Law, P.A. to speak with an experienced Tampa Animal Regulations Lawyer.

While Joe Exotic starts his days in prison, many other exotic animal owners have come forward to claim that not everyone in the business is bad. There are various exotic animal experiences in Tampa alone that challenge the negative light that Joe has shone on fellow big cat owners. Nonetheless, it’s important that the rules and legislation held in Florida be clarified by a trusted attorney, and maintained by park owners. These regulations are put in place not only for the animals, but for the aspiring Tiger King’s as well.

If you or someone you know has been charged with a crime related to exotic animal regulation, contact a skilled Tampa Attorney at Pallegar Law, P.A. Call 813.444.3912 to schedule your free consultation.