Well, it's about time! For those of you who don't remember, I had my high dollar ball pythons stolen from my home in Jan 2004.
In Sept 2004 the thief, Jeff Quon, posted an ad on Kingsnake using an alias. I saw the ad and began contacting the seller, with the help of Paul Edwards we were able to get a picture of the mojave ball that was being advertised. Paul did a great job as a "buyer". Quon was selling a stolen snake and was not easy to get a picture from as he knew he was playing with fire. Paul was able to get on his good side and convince him to send the picture. Once we had the picture we were able to get the Anaheim Police to help set up a sting. Paul told Mr Quon that he had a buddy in So Cal for the IRBA show in Anaheim and that he would meet and buy the mojave from Quon.
The "buyer" who showed up was an undercover detective. From there Quon was taken into custody. I was called and was able to go pick up my snakes from Quon's parent's home. They were way under fed and looked bad but I was so happy to get them back!!!
For the past year Quon has been working his way through the legal system, with the help of a VERY high profile and HIGH dollar attorney. That sure helped him.
Yesterday, he plead guilty to the felony charge and was sentenced to 6 months in jail, 3 years probation and $25,000 in restitution.
I still can't go into too many details, this ends the criminal part of this but the civil suit is just beginning.
I want to thank everyone who helped in this, all the people who emailed and called and showed your support. Thank you so much! I also have to thank Paul Edwards who did a great job, it was stressful and seemed touch and go but he was able to get the picture and that got the attention of the police. I don't think this would have had the same outcome if it weren't for that picture. I also would like to thank Jack Briggs, a great help and a really good guy. Of course, huge thanks to Dan and Colette Sutherland, great people and great friends. I was ready to sell my racks and leave this hobby until I saw the love and support from all the people in this industry, thanks again.
Jeff Houston

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