Jacksonville, N.C. — Born Free USA united with Animal Protection Institute (Born Free USA) today publicly challenged the unfounded reports that it released two Monocled cobras in a North Carolina neighborhood. Despite the discovery of a flyer from someone who had lost two Monocled cobras in the area, reports quoted unidentified “officials” who allegedly claimed the snakes had been purposefully released by Born Free USA.
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“We are anxious to discuss this incident with the ‘officials’ making these unsubstantiated and outrageous accusations,” says Nicole G. Paquette, Esq., Senior Vice President and General Counsel for Born Free USA. “Not only are the claims utterly ridiculous, they go against all the evidence relating to the incident.”
Born Free USA is the leading proponent of SB 1788, legislation authored by Senator Ed Jones, which would mandate that localities restrict the possession of dangerous exotic animals in North Carolina. North Carolina is one of only nine states with no laws regulating keeping dangerous wildlife as pets.
“Born Free USA has never, and will never, endanger the lives of people or animals to further its work. Although the snakes most likely escaped from their home, or were dumped, we are equally concerned that this dangerous action may have been the work of a few individuals who disagree with the legislation,” adds Paquette. “This incident shows exactly why SB 1788 should be passed and strengthened without delay.”
Born Free USA (www.bornfreeusa.org) is a national non-profit animal welfare and conservation organization and a member of the Captive Wild Animal Protection Coalition (www.cwapc.org).
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Contact:
Zibby Wilder, Born Free USA, 916.267.7266, press@bornfreeusa.org