News Summary
Bhagavan ‘Doc’ Antle, featured in ‘Tiger King,’ has received a one-year prison sentence for illegal animal trafficking and money laundering. Antle’s operations involved the unlawful buying and selling of endangered species, including chimpanzees and tigers. He has been fined $55,000 and required to surrender three chimpanzees. Despite his claimed history in animal care, the case highlights ongoing issues in wildlife conservation and illegal trafficking. Antle’s sentence reflects a continued focus on enforcing laws to protect endangered species.
Charleston, South Carolina – Bhagavan “Doc” Antle, famous for his role in the Netflix documentary series “Tiger King,” was sentenced to one year and one day in federal prison for violations related to illegal animal trafficking and money laundering. Antle, 65, was also fined $55,000 for violating federal laws governing the trafficking of endangered species. This sentencing took place on July 8, 2025, marking a significant consequence for his illicit activities in wildlife trade.
In November 2023, Antle had pleaded guilty to conspiracy and money laundering charges. Prosecutors argued that his illegal operations included the purchasing of endangered animals for his zoo, the Myrtle Beach Safari, as well as the unlawful buying and selling of animals such as chimpanzees, lions, tigers, and cheetahs without the necessary permits. The authorities revealed that he laundered over $500,000 to fund these illegal transactions, which were intricately linked to a human smuggling operation requiring rapid cash payments.
Despite prosecutors seeking a harsher sentence for Antle due to the severity of his actions, Judge Joseph Dawson III considered Antle’s history of animal care when deciding on the final punishment. However, Antle’s operations had been under legal scrutiny for years, with officials noting that he was aware of the federal regulations yet continued his practices.
As part of his plea deal, Antle is also required to surrender three chimpanzees. This requirement highlights the broader impact of his illegal activities on endangered species. Additionally, two former employees of Antle, Meredith Bybee and Andrew “Omar” Sawyer, received probation instead of prison time for their involvement in the illegal activities tied to the Myrtle Beach Safari, which charges high fees for close interactions with young animals, capitalizing on their exotic appeal.
Antle’s sentencing has brought renewed attention to the illegal wildlife trade, particularly in connection with his activities that have previously drawn public interest through “Tiger King.” The series portrayed life in the world of big cat ownership, and Antle’s unique approach to his business model sparked a mixture of fascination and concern regarding animal welfare.
Authorities have been actively addressing illegal wildlife trade for several years, with various individuals connected to Antle facing charges and varying outcomes. Notably, figures such as Jason Clay and Charles Sammut have also been implicated in the broader network of illegal animal trafficking.
Following the sentencing, Antle expressed remorse, acknowledging his past mistakes and indicating a desire to rectify his actions in the future. This situation serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges surrounding the protection of endangered species and the legal repercussions of those who violate wildlife conservation laws.
The case against Antle is a critical part of a larger narrative about the illegal wildlife industry, showcasing the risks associated with trafficking endangered animals and the consequences faced by those involved in such illicit practices. As federal authorities continue to crack down on wildlife crimes, this case serves as a symbol of the need for stringent enforcement of laws designed to protect vulnerable species.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bhagavan Antle Faces Federal Prison Sentence for Wildlife Trafficking
Additional Resources
- UPI: Doc Antle Sentenced
- WLTX: Doc Antle Facing Possible Prison Sentence
- WBTW: The Rise and Fall of Bhagavan ‘Doc’ Antle
- Wikipedia: Wildlife Conservation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wildlife Crime
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
