“Bizarre Bust: CHP Stops Roll-Royce with a Monkey in a Jumpsuit and a Surprise Stash”
**California Officials Discover “Next-Level Monkey Business” in Luxurious Rolls-Royce Ghost**
On Monday night, California Highway Patrol (CHP) troopers made a surprising discovery while pulling over a driver suspected of speeding on California Highway 99 north of 17th Avenue near Madera. Inside the speeding Rolls-Royce Ghost, valued at over $350,000, were five cell phones, four large containers of marijuana, and a one-month-old baby spider monkey wearing a onesie. The driver, identified as Ali Mused Adel Muhammad, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI), possessing an exotic animal, and possessing marijuana for sale.
The discovery was a shock to the arresting officers, who initially had no idea what to do with the confiscated primate. Fortunately, a brave officer volunteered to take the baby monkey home and care for it overnight, ensuring its safety and well-being.
On Tuesday, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife took the monkey to the Oakland Zoo, where it will be cared for by skilled zookeepers. The baby spider monkey, nicknamed “Marcel” after the sitcom “Friends” character Ross Geller’s pet monkey, will receive the constant supervision and skilled care it requires to survive.
“It’s next-level monkey business,” said Fish and Wildlife Capt. Nathan Smith. “We really want to deter people from participating in the pet trade like this because it’s clearly illegal and it’s bad for the animals to be kept under substandard care.” Many spider monkeys are malnourished due to a lack of understanding of diet and medical needs.
Spider monkeys are social animals that are native to the tropical forests of Central and South America. In the wild, they are cared for by their mothers for the first two years of their lives, and those who keep them as pets often underestimate the amount of attention they require and fail to provide the necessary care.
The confiscated monkey’s story sheds light on the growing problem of the illegal trade in exotic animals, including spider monkeys, in California. Many exotic animals, such as African lions, tigers, gibbons, macaws, chimpanzees, parrots, goats, sheep, rabbits, and reptiles, are being kept as pets, often under substandard conditions.
**FAQ**
Q: Is it legal to keep spider monkeys as pets in California?
A: No, it is not legal to keep spider monkeys as pets in California. The state has laws in place to protect endangered primates like spider monkeys.
Q: Why is it illegal to keep spider monkeys as pets?
A: Spider monkeys require constant supervision and skilled care to survive. Keeping them as pets can lead to malnutrition, neglect, and other health problems.
Q: What happens to confiscated exotic animals?
A: Confiscated exotic animals are typically taken to shelters or zoos where they can receive the care they need. In the case of the baby spider monkey, it was taken to the Oakland Zoo.
Q: How can people help prevent the trade in exotic animals?
A: By raising awareness about the dangers of keeping exotic animals as pets, people can help prevent the trade in exotic animals. It’s essential to appreciate and respect these animals in their natural habitats.
**Conclusion**
The story of Marcel, the baby spider monkey, highlights the importance of protecting endangered primates like him. Keeping spider monkeys as pets is not only illegal but also poses a significant risk to their well-being. By working together, we can prevent the trade in exotic animals and ensure that these incredible creatures receive the care and respect they deserve.
