July 01, 2004

By: Curtis Mckay
Website: http://www.1st-in-pets.com

Criminal offenses for the illegal sale and possession of endangered species and native Virginia wildlife

Three men have been charged in relation to a search warrant that was executed on Animal Adventures, a pet store located on Lee Highway in Bristol, Virginia.

Norman Henry Balthis and Corey Lane Edwards, both of Bristol, Virginia, and Brian D. Layell of Bristol, Tennessee, have been charged with criminal offenses for the illegal sale and possession of endangered species and native Virginia wildlife.

Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) game wardens, Special Law Assistance Patrol team members, and biologists, with assistance from the Bristol Police Department and Bristol Animal Control, executed the search warrant on Tuesday, May 18, 2004, on the retail animal outlet and seized an assortment of exotic and native animals including alligators, turtles, toads, and venomous snakes.

Balthis, Edwards, and Layell have been charged with a total of six felonies involving the sale of wild animals, 24 misdemeanors relating to the possession of wild animals without a permit, and four misdemeanors for the failure to provide adequate care to the animals located at the business.

The Commonwealth Attorney for the City of Bristol announced that a court date has been tentatively set for July 15, 2004, in the City of Bristol General District Court. For more information, see pet training aids.

About The Author:

Curtis Mckay is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-pets.com.  Pamper your pet and get up to date information on pet health, food, accessories, behavior, gifts and toys.