A Florida man was arrested on Tuesday after he tried to sell his pet alligator on Craigslist. The man, who has not been identified, was reportedly asking $500 for the 5-foot-long alligator, which he had named “Chompers.”
When police arrived at the man’s home, they found Chompers in a small cage in the backyard. The alligator was reportedly very friendly and even let the officers pet him.
The man told police that he had found Chompers as a baby and had been raising him ever since. He said that he was selling the alligator because he was moving to a new apartment that did not allow pets.
The man was charged with possession of an alligator without a permit. He is scheduled to appear in court next month.
The man’s arrest has sparked a debate on social media about whether or not it is legal to own a pet alligator in Florida. Some people believe that it is cruel to keep an alligator in captivity, while others argue that it is perfectly acceptable as long as the alligator is properly cared for.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has a list of rules and regulations that must be followed if you want to own a pet alligator. These rules include having a permit, providing the alligator with adequate housing and food, and not releasing the alligator into the wild.
If you are considering getting a pet alligator, it is important to do your research and make sure that you are prepared to meet the animal’s needs. Alligators can live for up to 50 years, so it is a commitment that should not be taken lightly.
In the meantime, the man who tried to sell his pet alligator on Craigslist is facing a possible jail sentence. He is also likely to have to pay a fine and forfeit ownership of Chompers.
It is unclear what will happen to Chompers now that his owner has been arrested. The FWC will likely take custody of the alligator and find a suitable home for him.
