State, judge dispute jurisdiction of exotic animals

Associated Press

COLUMBUS

A judge who ordered the return of five tigers and five other exotic animals seized from a Northeast Ohio farm is now in a legal fight with the state over who has jurisdiction in such transfers.

In filings with the Ohio Supreme Court, the Department of Agriculture argues it has oversight in those matters, but an attorney for Stark County Judge Frank Forchione contends he acted within his authority in ordering the animals’ return to Stump Hill Farm. It’s still fighting to get them back.

The state seized the tigers, two pumas, two baboons and a chimpanzee May 4, saying owner Cyndi Huntsman hasn’t met Ohio’s tightened restrictions on dangerous wild animals. Judge Forchione granted a warrant that facilitated the seizure, but the next day, after Huntsman’s attorney raised concerns, the judge ordered that the animals be returned to the Massillon farm by Thursday.

Judge Forchione concluded that the state failed to disclose relevant facts about Huntsman’s cooperation with a quarantine order, her pending administrative appeal and an upcoming hearing. He also concluded that the animals were well cared for at Stump Hill and that a hearing hadn’t substantiated the state’s claim that returning the animals poses significant risks to public safety and their health.

The state has stood by its actions, arguing it lawfully moved the animals to a state holding facility east of Columbus. The chimpanzee was quickly moved to an out-of-state rescue facility, which a department spokeswoman has declined to publicly identify. One of the tigers has since given birth to four cubs, and the state says they’re doing well. It’s unclear whether the order for the animals’ return would cover the cubs.