Doc Antle Sentenced for Animal Trafficking, Laundering

Bhagavan 'Doc' Antle, known from Netflix's 'Tiger King' and owner of Myrtle Beach Safari, was sentenced to 12 months and one day in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy, money laundering, and wildlife trafficking. He illegally bought and sold endangered animals—including tigers, lions, cheetahs, and chimpanzees—often disguising payments as donations to his nonprofit. Antle laundered over $500,000, believing the funds were from an illegal immigrant smuggling operation. In addition to prison and a $55,000 fine, he must forfeit three chimpanzees, pay nearly $200,000 in restitution, and serve three years of supervised release. Several associates received probation or short prison terms. The judge cited both Antle's illegal actions and his demonstrated concern for the animals when determining the sentence.