Sadly all varanids are illegal in New York City but I'm not sure about NY state. The White plains reptile show in NY has numerous vendors openly selling all types of monitor species.Interestingly, New York (where Brunner lives) appears to have some statutes pertaining to the possession of Black Throat Monitors. I'll do a bit more research later, but:
http://www.bornfreeusa.org/b4a2_exotic_animals_state.php?s=ny

