Florida's 'Monkey Whisperer' Sentenced for Illegal Wildlife Trade
Key Takeaways
- Jimmy Hammonds, 62, Parrish, Florida, sentenced to nine months' federal prison for trafficking protected primates.
- Continued The Monkey Whisperer, LLC operations while on probation.
- Nine months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release.
Conviction and Sentence
Hammonds was sentenced to nine months in federal prison.
“Jimmy Hammonds, 62, was sentenced to nine months in federal prison for trafficking protected primates while on probation for the same offense Department of Justice A Florida man nicknamed “The Monkey Whisperer” has learned his fate for trafficking protected primates — while on probation for the same offense”
He pleaded guilty to conspiring to violate the Lacey Act.
He continued operating his business despite being on federal probation.
Undercover Operation
Hammonds contacted an undercover agent through social media.
He moved conversations to an encrypted texting app.
He agreed to sell two common marmosets for $7,400.
Surrendered Animals and Fines
Hammonds surrendered 67 animals including primates and kangaroos.
“A Florida man who called himself “The Monkey Whisperer” has been sent to prison after continuing to traffic exotic animals even while on probation for the same crime, US prosecutors have said”
He was ordered to pay a $60,000 fine.
He was banned from possessing or selling wildlife.
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