Bhagavan “Doc” Antle, known for his role in the popular Netflix series “Tiger King,” has been sentenced to one year and one day in federal prison for violating laws regarding the trafficking of endangered animals. The sentence, handed down on July 8, 2023, follows Antle’s guilty plea in November 2023, where he admitted to engaging in illegal activities that included purchasing and selling exotic animals without the necessary permits.
Antle, aged 65, received a fine of $55,000 as part of his sentencing. Prosecutors had initially sought a more severe penalty, citing the seriousness of his crimes, which included trafficking in exotic animals and money laundering. According to Prosecutor Patrick Duggan, Antle’s actions contributed to a black market for endangered species, which poses a significant risk to wildlife conservation efforts.
Details of the Case
Antle’s illegal dealings involved the purchase of various endangered species, including chimpanzees, lions, tigers, and cheetahs, over a period of more than a decade. The animals were kept at his Myrtle Beach Safari in South Carolina, where visitors paid substantial fees for the opportunity to interact with young animals. Prosecutors asserted that Antle laundered more than $500,000 to facilitate these transactions, demonstrating a calculated approach to circumventing federal regulations.
In court, Duggan emphasized that “he was knowingly and illegally trading them as part of a black market that drives another black market of poaching and smuggling.” The evidence presented highlighted Antle’s familiarity with federal law, which allowed him to operate without facing legal repercussions for years.
During the hearing, Antle’s defense team argued for a more lenient sentence, citing his commitment to animal care and conservation efforts. They mentioned that he is responsible for over 150 exotic animals at his facility, which require substantial resources, consuming approximately 1,000 pounds (454 kilograms) of meat daily. Friends and family members expressed their support, describing him as generous and compassionate towards animals.
Implications and Reactions
The federal judge, Joseph Dawson III, acknowledged Antle’s violations but noted that evidence suggested he genuinely cared for the animals in his possession. In a moment of remorse, Antle apologized for his actions, stating, “I made a mistake, I did stupid things,” and expressed hope of restoring his reputation and work in animal conservation.
Antle’s sentencing concludes a chapter of legal challenges associated with the “Tiger King” franchise, which also includes the case of fellow star Joe Exotic, currently serving a 21-year sentence for conspiracy to commit murder against animal rights activist Carole Baskin. Exotic’s legal troubles were unrelated to Antle’s case, but both men have drawn significant attention due to their controversial practices in the exotic animal trade.
Two of Antle’s associates have also faced consequences for their involvement in his operations. Meredith Bybee received a year of probation for selling a chimpanzee, while Andrew “Omar” Sawyer was sentenced to two years of probation for helping Antle launder money. The case continues to shed light on the complexities of animal trafficking and the legal ramifications facing those involved in such activities.
As Antle serves his sentence, the Myrtle Beach Safari remains operational but is now accessible only by reservation. The facility’s future and its impact on animal conservation efforts will likely come under scrutiny as discussions surrounding the ethical treatment of exotic animals persist.
