In Utah we are still working out a few of the details of the herp laws but we have a situation that has surfaced that needs help from outside of the state as well. I'm hoping to enlist some help from those that are concerned that this may happen to them as well. They don't believe there are many of us out there. If it happened to you, you'd want others to help too wouldn't you?
This was posted on www.UtahHerps.com forums 11 Jan 2004
Most of you know regarding Operation Slither that occurred one year ago (January 9th, 2004). In that raid on my house, and several other houses, 63 of my 65 Rubber Boas were taken by the Division of Wildlife Resources. I learned in August of 2004 that 26 had died. Then again in October, I received additional information indicating 32 had died. More than 1/2 were dead as of three months ago, and I am getting desperate to salvage whatever might be left. (Fighting the legal battles takes up
most of my time lately, hence, not as much attention to UHA as there should be).
I have filed suit against the DWR, but the legal process is extremely slow and drawn out. I am now requesting the intervention of Governor Huntsman in this matter.
If you feel comfortable, could you please also write a letter to the Gov to let him know this is an issue that more than one person is concerned about? The address to write to is:
Governor Jon Huntsman Jr.
Office of Constituent Affairs
Utah State Capitol Complex
East Office Building, Suite E220
Box 142220
Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-2220
I asked Ric Blair and Jim Dix (also affected by OpSlither) to send letters similar to mine, asking Gov Huntsman to interject in their situations and find a speedy resolution. You may want to include them in your letter as well.
For those curious, I have been charged with three misdemeanors, but still do not know the details of what they think I did wrong. I firmly contend I have done nothing wrong. Therefore, I have refused their offer for a plea-in-abeyance, and have asked for a jury trial. Why did I have so many Rubber Boas? Most were my fathers, being maintained to gain additional data on reproduction and growth. Besides, I love the little buggers, and enjoy them immensely. I did hope to begin a captive breeding program, but that never got started.
If you know myself, Ric, or Jim well enough to vouch for, or simply feel that OS should have been resolved by now and wish to ask for Huntsman’s interjection, please write ASAP. I believe that if he receives many letters within a week period, it will catch his attention. Below is the letter I sent today.
Quote:
January 11, 2005
Governor Jon Huntsman Jr.
Office of Constituent Affairs
Utah State Capitol Complex
East Office Building, Suite E220
Box 142220
Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-2220
Dear Governor Huntsman,
I am writing today to request your assistance in resolving an issue regarding actions that have been taken by the Division of Natural Resources’, Department of Wildlife Resources (Department). I cannot express the frustrations I have had in trying to work with this Department.
My father has been involved in biological studies of the Rubber Boa (Charina bottae) for more than four decades. These snakes, which are native to Utah, are secretive and not well studied. My father’s research collection of snakes was placed in my care to assist with his work. You may view my website, which is dedicated to my father’s studies, at http://www.rubberboas.com.
On January 9th, 2004 (one year ago), Department staff came to my house and confiscated nearly all the boas in my care. Apparently, Department staff had been misinformed that I was holding a subspecies that is prohibited to hold in captivity. Those allegations have since been proven false, yet the Department continues to hold the boas entrusted to my care.
I and my father have contacted the Department on a number of occasions. These discussions have not resulted in any resolution. In addition, I have been informed that more than half of the boas have died under the Department’s care. I am sure you agree it is not acceptable for the Department to continue under the current scenario. I would like the
Department to return these legally collected and legally held boas. I can assure you and the Department that my interests are in the proper care and handling of these special snakes.
This letter, and my request for your assistance is a last resort to resolve a time sensitive situation which the legal system has failed to resolve. Vast amounts of information and research opportunities have already been lost due to the Departments actions. Return of the boas to my care to restore their health is key to avoiding additional losses. I understand that you and your staff are asked to look into many issues and that your staff’s time is limited, but I hope that you or one of your staff will look into this matter and assist in a resolution.
Senator Bill Hickman may be of assistance to you as he has followed this matter closely. Also, I can be reached at any time at (801) 510-XXXX should you have any questions.
I Xed out his number for privacy reasons. He would appreciate your letters, I've needed them years ago. I hope you're not next.
