Federal criminal charges dropped against Monterey Zoo owner
SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV)- The Department of Justice of South Carolina Florence Division has dropped all criminal charges against a Monterey County zoo owner.
Charles Sammut was charged in an indictment filed on June 29, 2022, that alleged he was involved in commercial wildlife trafficking. Sammut owns and operates Vision Quest Ranch at 400 River Road, Salinas.
A representative of Sammut said, "The charges incorrectly alleged that Mr. Sammut was involved in a “commercial” transaction involving two red ruffed lemurs in June 2018. In fact, the lemurs were legally donated to Monterey Zoological Society. Mr. Sammut has never illegally purchased any endangered species. Monterey Zoo complies with all permitting and regulatory requirements for all animals residing at the zoo."
Sammut was listed along with "Tiger King" documentary star Doc Antle -who was born in Salinas- and others.
“I am gratified by the government’s dismissal of all charges against me. My life’s work is to support wildlife conservation and education," said Sammut. "Today’s dismissal means I can get back to that critical work at Monterey Zoo.”
The Monterey Zoological Society is listed as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization used for animal conservation and education.
A Salinas man and Tiger King Star could face time in prison for wildlife trafficking
A federal grand jury in Florence, South Carolina, returned a ten-count indictment over wildlife trafficking and money laundering.
Of the five individuals indicted, 61-year-old Charles Sammut of Salinas is one of the men listed.
Sammut owns and operates Vision Quest Ranch at 400 River Road, Salinas. The ranch allegedly housed captive exotic species and sold guests tours and safari experiences.
The indictment says Sammut, Bhagavan Mahamayavi Antle, and two other men are also charged.
If found guilty, Sammut faces five years in federal prison on charges of trafficking wildlife animals.
