People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals and a group of concerned citizens sued the Waccatee Zoo and its owners, alleging that the unaccredited roadside menagerie has violated the federal Endangered Species Act and South Carolina’s public nuisance law by subjecting tigers, lemurs, and hundreds of other animals to abuse and neglect and by illegally selling lemurs and lion parts. The complaint includes photographs of emaciated and injured animals who reportedly were denied veterinary care. Plaintiffs seek declaratory judgment and injunctive relief, including a court order transferring all animals to “reputable facilities or sanctuaries that the Court determines are the most appropriate placement for the forfeited animals, consistent with the animals’ best interests.”
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