New York Man Battles to Reclaim Seized Pet Alligator

After 34 years together, Tony Cavallaro seeks the return of his alligator, Albert, citing the reptile's gentle nature and questioning the state's seizure operation.

Tony Cavallaro, a New York resident, is fighting to regain custody of his 34-year-old pet alligator, Albert, after it was seized by the state's Department of Environmental Conservation.
The seizure occurred because Cavallaro's license had expired, and he had allowed public interaction with Albert, which is against the regulations for keeping animals classified as dangerous.
Cavallaro describes Albert as a gentle giant, having raised him since he was two months old, and has spent significant amounts on Albert's care and living conditions.
An online petition for Albert's return has garnered over 120,000 signatures, and Cavallaro has hired a lawyer to pursue legal action against the Department of Environmental Conservation.
Cavallaro alleges mistreatment during the seizure operation, comparing it to a narcotics bust, and expresses concern for Albert's well-being in his new environment.