Lizard King:the True Crimes and Passions of the World's Greatest Reptile Smugglers

The Lizard King, a true story of a crafty reptile smuggler and the federal agent who tries to catch him, explores the vast criminal enterprise that supplies reptiles to pet shops, collectoers, and zoo's worldwide. It takes us into the middle of an unusaul family business, the global conservation movement, and one man's noble and monomaniacal quest for justice.






May 14, 2010 in Milwaukee police report.
Huge anacondas, alligators among reptiles found in Milwaukee home, building
Associated Press | Posted: Friday, May 14, 2010 8:57 am
Milwaukee police were called to investigate an alleged sexual assault and stepped into a crime scene crawling -- in some cases literally -- with hundreds of reptiles and other animals.
The incident happened Wednesday at a home and nearby building housing alligators, turtles, rodents and snakes.
Police spokeswoman Anne E. Schwartz said dozens of reptiles were in the house, and hundreds more were inside a building used as a storage facility and residence. Police remained at the scene Thursday.
Lt. Paul Felician told WTMJ-TV in Milwaukee that there were also at least five anaconda snakes, ranging in size from 20 to 30 feet in length and probably several hundred pounds. He said there also were spiders and a chicken.
The animals were being kept in an assortment of storage containers, and some were roaming and not confined.
Schwartz said police were assisted by officials from two nearby zoos, Milwaukee Domestic Animal Control, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the Milwaukee Department of Neighborhood Services.
Officers arrested a 50-year-old Milwaukee woman on tentative charges related to the animals, including intentionally mistreating animals.
Police still are investigating the alleged sexual assault, too.


And is it still going on -- maybe in your own neighborhood.