ALLEGANY, N.Y. (WKBW) — An Allegany man, who was recently charged after the largest seizure of illegal reptiles in New York State history, is facing more charges after authorities found he was in possession of an alligator.
7 Eyewitness News has learned that the Department of Environmental Conservation received a report of a two-foot long alligator seen in the backyard of a residence in Allegany, near the home of William Engelder.
After a search warrant was executed at Engelder’s home, DEC officers discovered one painted turtle and three box turtles. It was also determined that the alligator came from the home.
According to the DEC, Engelder was charged with illegally possessing a dangerous animal, illegally possessing a wild animal and three counts of illegally possessing a wild animal for the box turtles.
Engelder was arraigned in the Allegany Village Justice Court. He is due back in court on August 6.
The animals are temporarily being held at the Erie County SPCA.
