Snake owner fined by court
MONTEGO BAY, St James — A man has found himself in hot water with the law after authorities discovered a protected snake in his home.
Ejavan Waite appeared in the St James Parish Court on Wednesday and pleaded guilty to the charge of possession of a protected animal.
The incident came to light when police received reports that a snake was being used to frighten children. Acting on the tip, officers went to Waite’s residence where they found the reptile secured in a cage.
During the court proceedings, Waite told Judge Natiesha Fairclough-Hylton that he was unaware it was illegal to keep the animal and said he had owned it for some time.
Judge Fairclough-Hylton handed down a fine of $11,000, with the alternative of 10 days’ imprisonment, and issued a stern warning to Waite about future compliance with the law.
Under the Wildlife Protection Act, certain animals are classified as “protected” and it is illegal to possess, sell, or trade them without proper permits. The law is designed to conserve native species and ensure the safety of both the animals and the public. Some types of snake in particular, fall under these protections due to their ecological importance and potential danger if handled improperly.
