California Man Arrested with Spider Monkey, Rattlesnakes, $25K Meth After Traffic Stop

A traffic stop in Vallejo, California, led to the arrest of Clifford Vincenty after deputies found half a pound of methamphetamine in his vehicle. A subsequent search of his home uncovered an additional pound of meth, over $2,000 in cash, a baby spider monkey, and two rattlesnakes. The spider monkey, named Violeta, is approximately 18 months old and was transferred to the Oakland Zoo, where she is receiving medical care including UV light treatments, calcium supplementation, and a thorough health evaluation. Possession of primates like spider monkeys is illegal in California, and Vincenty faces charges related to possession of narcotics for sale and unlawful ownership of exotic animals. The rattlesnakes were taken by a reptile rescue organization, and authorities continue to investigate Vincenty's activities. The case highlights the intersection of illegal drug trafficking and exotic animal possession, with the Oakland Zoo emphasizing the risks posed by wildlife trafficking.