Oregon’s West Coast Game Park Safari owner was caught with $1.6 million in cash, 44 firearms including a machine gun, and 80 grams of methamphetamine during a raid that also resulted in the removal of 310 endangered animals.
Key Takeaways
- Brian Tenney, 52, owner of West Coast Game Park Safari near Bandon, Oregon, was arrested on charges related to methamphetamine possession, manufacturing, and attempted distribution.
- Authorities seized 80 grams of methamphetamine, 8 grams of cocaine, 44 firearms (including one modified into a machine gun), and approximately $1.6 million in cash during the May 15 raid.
- 310 animals were taken into protective custody, with three animals requiring euthanasia due to poor health conditions.
- Despite the serious charges, Tenney was released shortly after his arrest as the district attorney awaits more information.
- The investigation began with concerns about animal welfare but uncovered a significant drug and weapons operation.
Meth Lab and Arsenal Discovered at Popular Tourist Attraction
What began as an investigation into animal welfare concerns at a popular Oregon tourist attraction quickly evolved into a major drug and weapons bust. On May 15, authorities raided the “West Coast Game Park Safari” near Bandon, Oregon, uncovering a disturbing operation behind the family-friendly facade. The 52-year-old owner, Brian Tenney, now faces serious charges related to methamphetamine possession, manufacturing, and attempted distribution after investigators discovered 80 grams of methamphetamine and 8 grams of cocaine on the premises.
The scale of the operation became clear as authorities continued their search, uncovering an arsenal of 44 firearms, including one weapon that had been illegally modified into a machine gun. Perhaps most shocking was the discovery of approximately $1.6 million in cash and financial instruments hidden at the facility. These findings raise serious questions about how long this illegal operation has been running under the guise of a legitimate tourist attraction that regularly invites families with children to interact with exotic animals.
Animals Removed from Dangerous Conditions
The raid also confirmed the initial concerns about animal welfare that prompted the investigation. A team of veterinarians and staff from the Oregon Humane Society, along with representatives from state departments, conducted thorough assessments of all animals at the safari park. Their findings led to the removal of 310 animals from the property. These animals, many of which are exotic species requiring specialized care, have been relocated to various sanctuaries and rescue facilities equipped to provide proper treatment and living conditions.
The conditions at the park were so poor that three animals required immediate euthanasia after evaluation – a camel, a chicken, and a kinkajou. This suggests a pattern of neglect that likely went unaddressed for an extended period while the facility’s owner was apparently more focused on his drug operation than on the welfare of the animals in his care. The inability of Oregon’s regulatory agencies to detect these issues earlier highlights significant gaps in oversight of private exotic animal facilities throughout the state.
Questions About Legal System After Tenney’s Release
Despite the severity of the charges and the substantial evidence collected during the raid, Brian Tenney was released shortly after his arrest. The Coos County District Attorney’s office stated they are awaiting more information before proceeding with the case. This quick release has raised eyebrows among local residents and animal rights advocates who question whether Oregon’s judicial system is taking these offenses seriously enough. The combination of drug manufacturing, illegal weapons possession, and animal neglect represents a significant threat to public safety.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to gather evidence and build their case against Tenney. Additional charges may be forthcoming as investigators delve deeper into the financial aspects of the operation, potentially including money laundering given the large sums of cash discovered. While the animals have been removed from immediate danger, the full extent of the illegal activities at West Coast Game Park Safari may take months to fully uncover as federal agencies have now joined local law enforcement in the investigation.
