A shocking raid at Oregon’s West Coast Game Park Safari revealed an illegal drug empire operating behind the facade of a popular tourist attraction, with authorities seizing 80 grams of methamphetamine, a modified machine gun, and $1.6 million in cash while rescuing hundreds of animals.
Key Takeaways
- Police arrested zoo owner Brian Tenney, 52, on charges of methamphetamine possession, manufacturing, and attempted distribution following a May 15 raid.
- Authorities discovered 80 grams of methamphetamine, 44 firearms including a modified machine gun, 8 grams of cocaine, and $1.6 million in cash and financial instruments.
- 310 animals were relocated to sanctuaries or rescue facilities, with three animals euthanized due to poor health conditions.
- Tenney has been released from custody as the district attorney awaits more information, with the investigation ongoing.
Drug Empire Disguised as Family Attraction
What began as an investigation into animal welfare concerns at the West Coast Game Park Safari near Bandon, Oregon, quickly escalated into a major drug and weapons bust. On May 15, authorities raided the popular tourist destination following suspicions of animal mistreatment, but what they discovered went far beyond neglected wildlife,” said Brian Tenney, The park’s 52-year-old owner was arrested after investigators uncovered a substantial cache of illegal drugs, weapons, and cash hidden within the facility that has attracted families for decades.
The raid yielded alarming findings: 80 grams of methamphetamine, 8 grams of cocaine, 44 firearms including a modified machine gun, and approximately $1.6 million in cash and financial instruments. These discoveries led to Tenney facing serious charges of methamphetamine possession, manufacturing, and attempted distribution. The scale of the operation suggests this was no small-time operation but rather a significant drug enterprise operating under the guise of a legitimate business, raising questions about how long these illegal activities had been occurring alongside normal zoo operations.
Animal Welfare Crisis Exposed
The raid also confirmed the initial animal welfare concerns that prompted the investigation. Veterinarians and staff from the Oregon Humane Society, along with state departments, conducted thorough assessments of all animals at the facility. Their findings necessitated the relocation of 310 animals to various sanctuaries and rescue facilities across the country. The conditions were so dire for some animals that three – a camel, a chicken, and a kinkajou – had to be euthanized after professional evaluation determined their health conditions were beyond recovery.
The mass relocation of hundreds of exotic animals presents a logistical challenge for animal welfare organizations already stretched thin. This case highlights the often inadequate oversight of private exotic animal facilities in America, where owners can accumulate large collections of wildlife with minimal regulatory supervision. The condition of these animals raises serious questions about whether current laws protecting exotic animals in private facilities are sufficient and properly enforced, especially when criminal activities are simultaneously taking place.
Legal Proceedings and Investigation Continue
Despite the serious nature of the charges and evidence seized, Tenney was released from custody following his arrest. The Coos County District Attorney’s office indicated they are awaiting additional information before proceeding further with the case. This decision has raised eyebrows among local residents concerned about public safety and the message sent by releasing someone found with such substantial quantities of drugs and weapons. The ongoing investigation involves multiple agencies, including local law enforcement, drug enforcement officials, and animal welfare organizations.
The case exemplifies a disturbing pattern where criminals exploit legitimate businesses as fronts for illegal activities. West Coast Game Park Safari, which had operated for years as a family attraction where visitors could interact with exotic animals, now stands empty as authorities continue their investigation. The facility’s future remains uncertain, while the relocated animals face an adjustment period in their new environments. For the local community, the revelation that such extensive criminal activity was occurring in their midst has been particularly disturbing, shattering the wholesome image of a beloved tourist attraction.
