In a dramatic turn of events, a 750-pound, 11-foot-long alligator known as Albert was confiscated from a residence in New York this week, sparking a showdown between the state's Department of Environmental Conservation and the creature's self-professed caretaker.
Albert had been residing in an in-ground pool in the backyard of Tony Cavallaro's Hamburg, New York home, where he was reportedly suffering from various health issues such as blindness in both eyes and spinal problems, as per officials' statements. Allegedly, Cavallaro permitted members of the public to enter the water and interact with the unrestrained alligator, according to the department.
On Wednesday, Albert was removed from the premises "in the interest of public safety and the well-being, security, and care of the alligator," the department declared. He has since been relocated to a specialized caregiver who can provide for him while his condition is evaluated.
Contrary to allegations of neglect, Cavallaro disputed the accusations of inadequate care for the animal. In an online petition urging for Albert's return, he claimed to have treated the alligator with more attention "than most people dedicate to their children." Additionally, he criticized the department for the manner in which the confiscation was executed, citing the arrival of 20 agents at his residence clad in full protective gear and armed.
"It was like I was a gun dealing drug dealing criminal the way they acted. The scene that they made on my street is very disturbing and totally wrong," he wrote.
Officials said that Cavallaro had a license to own the alligator that expired in 2021. Cavallaro said that two years ago, the rules around owning an alligator had changed, and he attempted to renew his license in 2021 but was unable to contact the necessary authorities.
"I've had him 34 years and abided by all of them and renewed my permit annually as required," he wrote.
Cavallaro said that he plans to fight to regain custody of Albert.
"I ask it all of my friends and people who love Albert will support me when this date comes available and if you can join me at the Hamburg town court to help me fight them to get him back," he wrote.
A court date has not yet been announced.
