Overview of Trisha Meyer's Legal Issues and OnlyFans Connection
In a recent troubling case of exotic animal trafficking, former OnlyFans model Trisha Meyer has faced significant legal repercussions. Meyer, once known for her posts on OnlyFans, shifted her focus to dealing in exotic pets, a transition that has led to severe consequences involving endangered species.
The Illegal Sale and Trafficking of a Jaguar Cub
In April 2021, Meyer sold a jaguar cub named Amador for $25,000 to Abdul Rahman, a known marijuana dealer in Murrieta, California. This transaction included an additional $1,000 for the illegal interstate transportation of the jaguar from Texas, defying federal laws. Rahman, who purchased the cub because he found it "cute" and was financially able to, soon faced the practical challenges of housing a growing jaguar in a residential home.
The cub's presence became impractical and hazardous, particularly when the buyer’s partner was expecting a child. The jaguar, later named Eddie, was subsequently sold for $20,000 and ended up malnourished and mistreated, prompting intervention from wildlife authorities and animal rescue organizations.
Intervention by Wildlife Sanctuaries and Legal Consequences
Eddie the jaguar was eventually rescued by Bobbi Brink from Lions Tigers & Bears Sanctuary in San Diego County, after alerts from concerned individuals about the jaguar's conditions in Riverside County. Found in a dire state, Eddie has been recovering under the care of the sanctuary since September 2021.
The legal ramifications for Meyer have been severe. In July 2023, Abdul Rahman received a sentence of one-year probation and was ordered to pay $30,000 in restitution to the sanctuary. Meyer herself pleaded guilty to trafficking endangered species in June 2023, with a possible sentence of up to five years in prison looming.
Comments from Authorities
Special Agent Ed Newcomer of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, who led the investigation, criticized the growing trend of trafficking under the guise of animal enthusiasm. He pointed out the profit or obsession-driven motives behind such activities, dismissing any claims of genuine care for the animals involved.
Eddie's Recovery and Sanctuary Life
Eddie is now safely residing at the Lions Tigers & Bears Sanctuary, showing signs of recovery from the earlier neglect and instability he experienced. His story sheds light on the darker sides of exotic pet trading and highlights the ongoing efforts of sanctuaries and law enforcement to counter wildlife trafficking.
