Large alligator-like reptile found guarding 34lb stash of marijuana
Suspect reportedly told police he got the creature to commemorate rapper Tupac Shakur's 1996 death
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Authorities in California discovered an alligator-like reptile called Mr Teeth, who was apparently guarding a marijuana stash, it emerged this week.
When Alameda County Sheriff's deputies entered a home in Castro Valley they not only found 34 pounds of marijuana valued at an estimated $100,000, but also the 5-foot (1.52-meter) -long Caiman inside a Plexiglas tank guarding it in a bedroom.
Caimans are usually found in the wetland regions of Central and South America and are considered close relatives of alligators.
"We get guard dogs all the time when we search for grow houses and people stashing away all types of dope. But alligators? You just don't see that every day," Sgt. JD Nelson said Thursday.
The reptile's owner a Mr Assif Mayar, was arrested on Tuesday and later charged with one count of possessing marijuana for sale.
Mayar, 32, did not enter a plea and is is being held in jail on $20,000 bail and is due back in court on Jan. 15.
He could also face citations from the California Fish and Game Commission, including possession of an exotic animal without a permit.
Mayar reportedly told deputies he got the creature to commemorate rapper Tupac Shakur's 1996 death.
The animal was subsequently taken to Oakland Zoo by police, where it was described by animal officials as being ‘very sick’, but unfortunately did not respond to treatment and died shortly after.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments