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
Miss Universe owner shares update on Miss Universe Jamaica after she fell off stage

Miss Jamaica’s Health Crisis: Intracranial Hemorrhage and Fracture After Shocking Miss Universe Stage Fall

In an unfolding story that has captivated many, the Miss Universe organization…
Man with 12 arrests this year busted again after allegedly attacking doctor in hospital elevator: report

Man Arrested for 13th Time This Year Following Alleged Assault on Doctor in Hospital Elevator: Report

In a troubling incident in Chicago, a man with a history of…
Golden Globe nominations should give a skewed Oscar picture, plus a new podcast category

Golden Globe Shake-Up: What the New Podcast Category Means for Oscar Predictions

In a highly anticipated announcement, the nominations for the 83rd Golden Globe…
Marine who was killed in vehicle training accident at California base identified

Tragic Loss: Fallen Marine Identified Following California Training Accident

The Marine Corps announced on Friday the identity of the Marine who…
Former Miss Slovakia says Uber driver kicked her out on busy intersection for being Jewish

Miss Slovakia Alleges Uber Driver Ejected Her at Busy Intersection Due to Her Faith

A model from Toronto claims she was abruptly ejected from her Uber…
Royal Caribbean cruise passenger who died was served 33 drinks

Tragic Incident: Cruise Passenger’s Final Hours Involved 33 Drinks on Royal Caribbean

According to a new lawsuit, a passenger aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise…
Child Sex Predators: Inside an undercover Florida sting operation targeting online predators

Unveiling the Shadows: Inside Florida’s Bold Sting Operation Against Online Child Predators

First Coast News offers an exclusive glimpse into an undercover operation in…
Pretrial hearing for Luigi Mangione to resume Monday after court releases new evidence in CEO murder case

Pretrial Hearing for Luigi Mangione Reopens with Fresh Evidence in High-Profile CEO Murder Case

The courtroom in New York is set to reconvene today as Luigi…