Suspect snake abuse...suggestions?

[Mary Beth]

Hello....I learned of a situation that's occurring in Arlington County (Virginia). Evidently, a couple of guys have set up a large-scale snake operation whereby they are keeping snakes in their garage (if not in the house as well) and moving them in/out with great frequency. The mail person reports to neighbors that he delivers "live snake" boxes frequently, and it's clear from the number of bags and type of waste that accumulates next to the house that something really awful is going on with the snakes. (A couple of snakes have been found beyond the premises as well....these appear to be poisonous, exotic snakes.)

My friend, who lives down the street, has started a neighborhood discussion on this problem, and she has also taken it up with county officials. At one point, a couple of weeks ago, the county police did stake out the house, but they have told my friend that they do not have a warrant and are not able to investigate beyond mere observation.

Does anyone have experience with this type of thing ... I hate to think what these guys are doing to these snakes. How can we proceed?

Thanks, Mary Beth

[Vonnie]

sorry. no experience, but what about your local ASPCA?