An Oregon safari park owner was caught with $1.6 million cash, 44 firearms including a machine gun, and large quantities of methamphetamine in a shocking raid that also revealed distressing animal welfare violations at the popular tourist attraction.
Key Takeaways
- Brian Tenney, 52, owner of West Coast Game Park Safari, was arrested on methamphetamine possession, manufacturing, and distribution charges
- Law enforcement seized 80 grams of methamphetamine, 8 grams of cocaine, 44 firearms (including a modified machine gun), and $1.6 million in cash
- 310 animals were removed from the facility, with three having to be euthanized due to severe medical conditions
- Despite the severity of the charges, Tenney was released while prosecutors gather additional evidence
- The May 15 raid highlights concerning connections between animal exploitation and criminal enterprise
Major Drug Bust Reveals Dark Side of Tourist Attraction
Federal and local authorities descended on “West Coast Game Park Safari” near Bandon, Oregon on May 15, executing a raid that uncovered an alarming criminal enterprise operating behind the scenes of the popular wildlife attraction. The multi-agency operation found 80 grams of methamphetamine, 8 grams of cocaine, and an arsenal of 44 firearms, including a modified machine gun. Perhaps most shocking was the discovery of $1.6 million in cash and financial instruments, suggesting a sophisticated drug operation using the animal facility as cover for illegal activities.
The investigation began with concerns about animal welfare at the safari park but quickly expanded when evidence of drug trafficking emerged. Brian Tenney, the 52-year-old owner of the facility, was arrested on serious charges related to methamphetamine possession, manufacturing, and distribution. Despite the severity of these allegations and the substantial evidence seized, Tenney was subsequently released from custody while the district attorney’s office awaits additional information to proceed with prosecution.
Animal Welfare Crisis Exposed
The conditions at West Coast Game Park Safari proved so concerning that authorities were forced to relocate 310 animals from the facility. A coalition of animal welfare experts, including veterinarians and staff from the Oregon Humane Society, assessed the creatures’ conditions during the raid. The situation was dire enough that three animals—a camel, a chicken, and a kinkajou—had to be euthanized after medical evaluation revealed severe and untreatable conditions. This tragic outcome underscores the potential consequences when oversight of exotic animal facilities is insufficient.
The operation to rescue and relocate such a large and diverse collection of animals presented significant logistical challenges. Law enforcement had to coordinate with multiple sanctuaries and rescue facilities to find appropriate placement for hundreds of exotic animals, many with specialized care requirements. The simultaneous investigation of drug trafficking and animal welfare violations highlights a disturbing pattern seen in other cases where exotic animal businesses serve as fronts for illegal activities.
Criminal Investigation Continues
Law enforcement officials have indicated that the investigation remains active and ongoing. The sheer volume of evidence seized—particularly the substantial amount of cash and arsenal of weapons—suggests a more extensive criminal network may be involved. The modified machine gun is especially concerning, as possession of such weapons typically carries severe federal penalties. While Tenney has been released for now, authorities continue building their case with forensic analysis of the seized materials.
The West Coast Game Park Safari has been a popular tourist destination in Oregon for years, advertising opportunities for visitors to interact with exotic animals. This case raises serious questions about the regulation and oversight of such facilities, particularly when they involve potentially dangerous wildlife. The combination of animal welfare violations and serious drug charges paints a disturbing picture of exploitation—both of animals and potentially of public trust. President Trump’s administration has consistently advocated for stronger enforcement against drug trafficking operations, especially those hiding behind legitimate businesses.
Legal and Regulatory Implications
This case exposes potential gaps in the regulation of private exotic animal facilities in Oregon and across the nation. While West Coast Game Park Safari operated as a legal business open to the public, the alleged criminal activities and animal welfare issues suggest that current oversight mechanisms may be insufficient. The operation’s ability to accumulate $1.6 million in cash points to a potentially lucrative illegal enterprise operating in plain sight for an extended period.
Tenney faces potential federal charges related to drug trafficking and weapons violations, in addition to possible animal cruelty charges. The decision to release him while the investigation continues has raised questions among local residents concerned about public safety. As authorities continue their investigation, the fate of the facility remains uncertain, while the hundreds of displaced animals face an uncertain future in various rescue facilities and sanctuaries across the region.
