Florida Man Arrested for Keeping Alligators and Turtles on His Property

A Florida man has been arrested after authorities discovered he was illegally keeping alligators and freshwater slider turtles on his property, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. 

Marion County Man Arrested for Keeping Alligators and Turtles on His Property

Robert Miller, 42, faces charges of illegally capturing or possessing alligators and unlawfully taking slider turtles, per the arrest report.

In August, FWC officers visited Miller's residence on SE 65th Street in Ocklawaha after receiving a tip that two alligators were being kept in his backyard swimming pool. Initially, Miller denied having the alligators but later admitted that the reptiles were in his pool, officials stated.

How Long Were The Alligators In His Pool?

Miller claimed the alligators had been in the pool for three months and said his ex-girlfriend's friend had placed them there. He further alleged that he had tried to contact FWC multiple times to have the animals removed but could not provide any call logs to support his claim.

What Else Did Police Find During The Investigation

During the investigation, officers also found a recently killed alligator and several freshwater slider turtles in a kiddie pool in the front yard. Miller confessed to killing the alligator with a pickax, citing concerns for his dog and numerous cats that frequented the lake area. He also admitted to taking the turtles from the nearby lake.

Miller was arrested and booked into the Marion County jail but was released the following day. The alligators were safely removed by a licensed trapper, and the turtles were returned to their natural habitat.