On Friday, June 3, FBI investigators in South Carolina detained Bhagavan "Doc" Antle, the self-styled guru who rose to prominence thanks to his role in the hit Netflix docuseries Tiger King.
According to sheriff records, Antle, who was a magician before founding his first private zoo, now owns and operates Myrtle Beach Safari, which showcases big cats and other endangered species, is being held on vague charges.
The arrest marks Antle's latest run-in with the law, following his indictment in late 2020 on allegations of wildlife trafficking, animal cruelty, and other offences.
The indictment was the result of a months-long investigation by Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring's Animal Law Unit.
As a result of the indictment, two of Antle's daughters were charged with Endangered Species Act violations and animal cruelty.
Antle's legal difficulties were compounded by allegations of sexual misbehaviour and predatory behaviour, many of which came from women who had previously worked for and romantically involved with him, earning him his own Tiger King spinoff documentary, which will be released in 2021.
In a statement to The Washington Post, activists praised his recent arrest. Marty Irby, executive director of Animal Wellness Action, issued the following statement:
"We congratulate the Department of Justice and the FBI on apprehending Bhagavan 'Doc' Antle, a longstanding crook involved in the heinous and inhumane trade in endangered big cats.
"Irresponsible breeding, terrible living conditions, and public exploitation are severe issues in the United States, and enclosing these wild animals poses a health and safety risk to humans."