BANDON, Ore. — The arrest of the owner of West Coast Game Park Safari and the seizure of dozens of firearms and a significant quantity of methamphetamine underscore longstanding concerns about the operation and the broader roadside zoo industry, according to Animal Wellness Action.
“There’s often an ugly backstory to the operations of roadside zoos, and that’s the case with West Coast Game Park Safari,” said Wayne Pacelle, president of Animal Wellness Action, which had previously investigated the animal-keeping operation. “So often, the neglect and even active mistreatment of animals is bound up with other criminal conduct, and that appears to be the case here.”
In addition to the arrest and seizure of 44 firearms and approximately 80 grams of methamphetamine, authorities also removed more than 300 animals from the property. The seizures followed an investigation by the Oregon State Police in coordination with local and federal agencies into alleged poor living conditions and treatment of the animals.
“This case is another reminder that unregulated and substandard animal attractions are not just a threat to the animals they exploit, but often a danger to public safety and a cover for other unlawful behavior,” Pacelle added.
Animal Wellness Action continues to advocate for stronger enforcement of animal welfare laws and increased oversight of roadside zoos nationwide to protect both animals and communities.