Oregon Zoo Proprietor Detained Following Discovery of Meth, Cocaine, Firearms, and $1.6M in Raid
Zoo Owner in Oregon Arrested Amid Drug Raid
The tranquility of the southern Oregon coast was disrupted earlier this month when police made a surprising arrest at a local zoo. The owner, Brian Tenney, was apprehended on drug-related charges, shaking up the small community near Bandon. This incident has left locals and authorities alike pondering how such activities persisted under the radar for so long.
The Coos County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Tenney, aged 52, faced charges for possession, manufacturing, and attempted distribution of methamphetamine. Authorities reported that he was taken into custody on a Tuesday but was released later that day as the district attorney’s office sought further details to build their case. It’s uncertain whether Tenney has legal representation at this point.
The unfolding saga began on May 15 when multiple search warrants were executed at the West Coast Game Park Safari. Nestled near Bandon, this facility had been under scrutiny due to concerns about animal welfare. During the raid, authorities uncovered a startling cache: 80 grams of methamphetamine, 44 firearms – with one notably converted into a machine gun – around 8 grams of cocaine, and financial assets totaling $1.6 million in cash, cashier’s checks, bonds, and certificates.
With so much at stake, the response was swift and comprehensive. Veterinarians and staff from the Oregon Humane Society, alongside state Departments of Wildlife and Agriculture, converged on the scene to evaluate the animals’ living conditions. They assessed everything from health to food quality and sanitation standards. It’s clear that such a large-scale operation required coordinated efforts from multiple agencies.
In total, police relocated 310 animals to safer environments like sanctuaries and rescue facilities. Not every story ended happily; after veterinary assessments, a camel, a chicken, and a kinkajou were humanely euthanized due to their poor conditions. The humane society’s involvement highlights the gravity of the situation and underscores the need for vigilance in safeguarding animal welfare.
As this complex investigation continues, it draws attention not just from local residents but also from those who care deeply about wildlife protection and ethical practices in animal care. For more on similar stories involving animal welfare and law enforcement actions, visit NPR.
For now, the small coastal town remains watchful as it awaits further developments. There’s an air of anticipation mixed with a touch of disbelief over how these events transpired in their backyard. While answers might be forthcoming as investigations progress, the impact of this event will resonate in Bandon for some time.
