Target: R. Paul Frasier, District Attorney of Coos County, Oregon
Goal: Seek the toughest lawful prosecution and sentencing—including a lifetime animal ban and restitution—after hundreds of animals were reportedly neglected and left to languish at a roadside zoo.
A roadside zoo operator has been hit with a staggering indictment spanning more than 300 counts tied to alleged animal neglect, plus other serious charges. Inspectors and investigators have allegedly documented an ark’s worth of suffering animals—ranging from a zebra and a chimpanzee to an elk and raccoons—found in deteriorating conditions that suggest prolonged deprivation and distress. These accounts claim some animals were wasting away and that record-keeping around deaths and care was lacking.
This case also reputedly follows years of red flags. Prior inspections allegedly noted animals deteriorating without adequate food, while a past incident reportedly involved a botched shooting that ended with two bears killed. The newly unsealed charges encompass hundreds of neglect counts and even racketeering, underscoring what advocates describe as systemic, long-term failures in care and oversight.
When this many sentient beings are apparently left to suffer, accountability must be firm, swift, and meaningful. Prosecutors should pursue the maximum penalties allowed by law, seek a permanent prohibition on owning or working with animals, require restitution for veterinary and placement costs, and secure any court-ordered evaluations and training necessary to protect future animals. Anything less risks sending the message that mass neglect can go unanswered.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear DA Frasier,
A roadside zoo operator now faces an enormous indictment tied to alleged neglect involving hundreds of animals, along with additional serious offenses. Accounts describe species from a zebra and a chimpanzee to an elk and raccoons left in squalid, deteriorating conditions, with some animals wasting away and documentation deficient. Prior concerns were also reported over incidents that ended with animals dead, suggesting a pattern of disregard for basic welfare.
These allegations portray widespread, prolonged suffering of living beings dependent on human care. The scale and severity reportedly uncovered here demand a response that both delivers justice for the animals and deters similar conduct. Community trust in animal-welfare enforcement hinges on a clear message that such conduct—if proven—will not be treated as a minor violation.
We respectfully urge your office to pursue the strongest lawful case and, upon any conviction, to seek maximum sentencing on all counts; a lifetime ban on owning, keeping, breeding, exhibiting, or working with animals; full restitution for rescue, veterinary, and placement costs; and any court-ordered counseling and animal-care training deemed appropriate. Robust, public accountability in this case can help ensure no captive animal is left to suffer in this manner again.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Rui Ornelas
