California meth bust leads to rescue of young spider monkey
Share and Follow

A Northern California drug bust has reportedly led to the rescue of three exotic animals, including a spider monkey now being treated at the Oakland Zoo.

Deputies with the Solano County Sheriff’s Office initiated a traffic stop May 6 in the unincorporated area of Vallejo, about 30 miles from San Francisco, according to a Facebook post.

The stop ended with the arrest of 50-year-old Vallejo local Clifford Vincenty and the seizure of about half a pound of methamphetamine, the post added.

County-level law enforcement executed a search warrant at Vincenty’s home the next day, where another pound of meth, over $2,000 in cash, two live rattlesnakes and a live spider monkey were reportedly found.

“Infant spider monkeys in the pet trade are often the result of their mothers and family members being shot down from the trees to capture the baby,” said Colleen Kinzley, vice president of animal care, conservation and research at the Oakland Zoo.

Violeta the monkey

Violeta is being cared for at the Oakland Zoo, where she is expected to undergo further medical testing. (Oakland Zoo/TMX)

“Many times, the baby is killed or injured due to the fall. Once they enter the pet trade, these animals typically do not receive a proper diet or adequate socialization with other monkeys, which can lead to lifelong physical and mental health issues,” Kinzley added. “It is crucial to raise awareness about the threats these animals face and to take action to end this deadly trade.”

Vincenty was charged with possession of a controlled substance for sale, according to the sheriff’s office, and faces additional charges, including “potential violations related to the possession of exotic animals.”

The investigation is ongoing. The Solano County Sheriff’s Office did not respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
St. John's surpass tough test in huge win over Villanova to claim No. 2 in Big East

St. John’s Triumphs Over Villanova: A Pivotal Win that Elevates Them to Big East’s No. 2 Spot

PHILADELPHIA — The journey to victory was a more gradual climb this…
Johnny Knoxville announces new movie, clarifies he 'can't get hit in the head anymore'

Johnny Knoxville Reveals Exciting New Film Project, Shares Why He’s Steering Clear of Head Injuries

LOS ANGELES — As excitement mounts for the upcoming release of the…
Skokie fire: Family with newborn baby displaced after house fire on North Kostner Avenue in Skokie, Mohammed Fayyaz says

Skokie House Fire Displaces Family with Newborn on North Kostner Avenue, Reports Mohammed Fayyaz

A family with a newborn has been left without a home following…
Chicago-area priest Father Curtis Lambert accused of sexual abuse of a minor at Sacred Heart Parish in Melrose Park: Archdiocese

Indian Priest Denis Manuel Carneiro Faces Sex Abuse Allegations Across Chicago-Area Parishes: Archdiocese Reports

A retired priest, once associated with various parishes in Chicago and its…
Police slam judge's ruling banning non-lethal weapons, saying he's putting lives in danger

Controversial Ruling: Police Criticize Judge’s Ban on Non-Lethal Weapons as Public Safety Risk

Rank-and-file police personnel have sharply criticized a federal judge, labeling them an…
Convicted killer kept in police oversight role as city council dismisses concerns over public safety

Oregon City Reconsiders Decision, Removes Convicted Murderer from Police Review Board Following Public Outcry

In the wake of intense backlash and public disapproval, the Salem City…
St. John's Ian Jackson thriving in point guard role

Ian Jackson Shines: Transforming St. John’s Game as Dynamic Point Guard

PHILADELPHIA — On a memorable evening, Ian Jackson showcased the skills and…
Nickelodeon ex-child star's dad says she was run over 'like roadkill'

Former Nickelodeon Star’s Father Claims She Was Treated Unfairly

The father of former Nickelodeon actress Kianna Anderson has opened up about…