Suffolk animal authorities have captured an alligator in Bay Shore -- the second time in as many months a sharp-toothed reptile of its kind has been caught on Long Island.
The more recent incident unfolded on Friday, when Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals agents notified state investigators that Kevin Semerian, of 1102 Carll Dr. in Bay Shore, had a 2 1/2-foot-long American alligator. It is illegal to have an alligator in New York State.
Agents also found two snakes -- a 4 1/2-foot California King and a 3 1/2-foot Red Tail Boa Constrictor -- at Semerian's home. Though it is legal to possess snakes in the state, SPCA Chief Roy Gross said Semerian's pets were not properly maintained.
They were kept in fish tanks with a blue tarp, where agents recorded a temperature of more than 110 degrees and no food or water. Gross said agents subsequently seized the snakes, which are being held in foster care pending disposition of the case.
On Monday, agents went to Semerian's home and charged him with two counts of animal cruelty, misdemeanors punishable by up to a year in jail in convicted.
Last month, Suffolk police caught a 3-foot-long alligator in Lindenhurst.
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