El Paso County Sheriff’s Office deputies made a dramatic animal‑cruelty bust on Oct. 22 after a routine traffic stop along I‑10 East near mile marker 48. The stop, conducted around 7:30 p.m., revealed a black Chrysler Pacifica packed with 72 exotic animals held in overcrowded, undersized containers.
Animals found in the vehicle
Inside the Pacifica, officers counted 56 tortoises, two kinkajous, 11 hedgehogs, two guinea pigs and a single caracal – an exotic wild cat native to Africa and the Middle East. Several of the animals were confined in containers that restricted movement, lacked proper ventilation, and showed accumulated feces and urine. Deputies also noted a lack of accessible food and water for the creatures.
Investigation and prior violations
Further investigation showed that the driver, identified as 48‑year‑old Kelli Pinnock, had transported the animals across multiple states. The sheriff’s office discovered licensing violations and restrictions tied to a previous animal‑cruelty arrest in Florida. Federal wildlife authorities were notified to determine whether additional violations of federal law had occurred.
Legal action and animal care
Pinnock was arrested at the scene and charged with five counts of Cruelty to Non‑Livestock Animals. She was booked into the El Paso County Downtown Detention Facility with a total bond set at $10,000. All 72 animals were voluntarily surrendered and, with assistance from the El Paso County Animal Welfare Unit, were safely transferred to facilities equipped to provide appropriate care.
Community response
Local animal‑rights groups praised the swift action by law‑enforcement, emphasizing the importance of protecting both native wildlife and exotic species from neglect. The incident underscores the need for stricter enforcement of licensing requirements for individuals transporting exotic animals across state lines.
Residents are reminded that the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone who suspects animal‑cruelty or illegal wildlife trafficking to report it immediately. Tips can be submitted through the department’s non‑emergency line or online portal.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
