Prosecutors in Florida have launched a criminal investigation into the deaths of 31 sloths from South America that were intended for display at a controversial new theme park. The announcement came on Friday, following the release of a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) report revealing that the mammals perished in an unheated warehouse between December 2024 and February 2025.
Background of the Case
The sloths were taken from rainforests in Peru and Guyana by the owners of Sloth World, a planned tourist attraction in Orlando. The FWC report detailed that 31 of the animals died under preventable conditions. Additionally, the Central Florida Zoo posted on Facebook that one of 13 rescued sloths, named Bandit, had to be euthanized due to poor health. The theme park's proprietor has reportedly filed for bankruptcy and abandoned plans to open.
Prosecutorial Response
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier stated on X that his office is assisting the state's ninth circuit in an ongoing criminal investigation. He emphasized the commitment to pursuing justice for those unable to protect themselves. In a letter to Democratic state Representative Anna Eskamani, who demanded an investigation, Uthmeier wrote, "Our office is unwavering in its commitment to pursuing justice on behalf of those who are unable to protect themselves. We will ensure accountability wherever the evidence requires." He noted that state prosecutors typically only get involved in animal welfare cases if there is evidence of racketeering.
Eskamani, who is running for mayor of Orlando, questioned why permits were granted for importing the animals and why the "slotharium" was approved. She stated, "The loss of dozens of animals under preventable conditions demands accountability. These reports raise not only questions of individual responsibility, but also broader concerns about regulatory oversight and enforcement."
Details of the Deaths
An FWC spokesperson said permit holders are required to maintain detailed records but not to report fatalities. The deaths came to light after an unannounced FWC visit in August 2025. Then-owner Peter Bandre told inspectors that 21 two-toed sloths from Guyana died from a "cold stun" after temporary heaters failed. Ten more sloths from Peru arrived with two dead on arrival, and eight others died from "poor health issues" after appearing emaciated. Bandre has since left Sloth World, and his former business partner, Ben Agresta, did not respond to requests for comment.
Investigation Findings
The FWC reported that Sloth World imported 61 mammals between December 2024 and March 2026, intending to display them in a 7,500-square-foot building on International Drive. A veterinarian consulted by the commission found systemic viral infections, neurological, respiratory, and gastrointestinal disease, and immune suppression. Necropsies did not definitively establish the primary cause of death or infection origin. All Sloth World facilities have closed, and no sloths remain. FWC investigators are working with the owner to relinquish all permits.
Rescue Efforts and Aftermath
The Central Florida Zoo took in 13 sloths voluntarily surrendered by Sloth World. Upon arrival, all were examined by veterinary staff. Bandit, one of the 13, showed severe lethargy, dehydration, nutritional imbalances, and gastrointestinal complications. Zoo CEO Richard Glover expressed heartbreak at the sloth's death, saying, "Our team did everything possible to give him the best chance at survival and ensure he was comfortable in his final days." The other 12 sloths are in stable condition.
Animal Rights Advocacy
Jonathan Morris, general counsel for captive animal law enforcement for PETA, urged Attorney General Uthmeier to hold Sloth World fully accountable. He stated, "These sloths were snatched from their rainforest homes and endured a terrifying journey thousands of miles away before being left to die in a barren warehouse. Wild animals are not props for roadside attractions, and PETA is calling on the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to hold Bandre and Agresta accountable for their actions and ensure that they never own animals again."
