SPCA CHARGES REPTILE OWNER WITH ANIMAL CRUELTY
Monday, September 12, 2005
By: Gina Browning, Public Relations Director, 716-629-3505

Animals Slowly Recovering at SPCA's Tonawanda Shelter

Paul F. Whalen Jr., of Alamo Place in Buffalo, was charged by SPCA Senior Investigating Agent Michael Armatys with one count of animal cruelty, Section 353 of the New York State Agriculture and Markets Law, after leaving numerous reptiles and other animals in near-starving conditions (read the original story).

Among the reptiles were a six-foot boa constrictor, a Savannah monitor, an iguana, and two geckos; other animals included a rabbit and a quail. The animals were seized by the SPCA September 2.

Whalen is set to appear in Buffalo City Court Friday, September 16, at 9:30 am. The seized animals are in recovery in the SPCA's infirmary and Wildlife Department.