The owner of an Oregon safari park has been arrested on drug-related charges following a police raid that uncovered methamphetamine, cocaine, 44 firearms, and $1.6 million in cash and financial assets, along with evidence of widespread animal mistreatment.
Brian Tenney, owner of West Coast Game Park Safari near Bandon on the southern Oregon coast, was arrested Tuesday by the Coos County Sheriff’s Office on charges of meth possession, manufacturing, and attempted distribution. He was later released as prosecutors await further details in the case.
Authorities raided the park in mid-March after launching an investigation into both alleged criminal activity and animal welfare concerns at the facility, which housed more than 450 exotic animals.
During the raid, police discovered
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80 grams of methamphetamine
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8 grams of cocaine
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44 firearms
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$1.6 million in cash, bonds, cashier’s checks, and certificates
Animal inspectors also found several malnourished animals, including lions and leopards described as having “hips, ribs, and spine prominently displayed under the skin.”
In response, veterinarians and staff from the Oregon Humane Society, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Oregon Department of Agriculture were called to assess the animals’ conditions, sanitation levels, and overall facility care.
As a result:
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310 animals were relocated to sanctuaries and rescue facilities
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Three animals — a camel, a chicken, and a kinkajou — were euthanized due to health issues
The raid and its findings have cast a harsh spotlight on the safari park, which has faced scrutiny for years but is now under active investigation for both animal cruelty and narcotics violations. Authorities confirmed the case remains ongoing.
The West Coast Game Park Safari had marketed itself as a petting zoo and walk-through safari experience with big cats and exotic species — a facility now facing the possibility of permanent closure and criminal prosecution for its owner.
