Animal Control Officer Galen Barrett says he has seized some snakes in his day, but never this many.
"I like snakes, I really do. They're neat creatures, unfortunately not in Council Bluffs,” said Galen Barrett.
Ten Ball Pythons ranging from two to five feet in length are sitting on the floor of Chief Animal Control Officer Galen Barrett’s office awaiting a move to a nearby rescue.
Barrett says on Tuesday Council Bluffs Police served a search warrant on a home near 21st Street and Avenue C.
“The warrant was actually for the snakes and the dog, because there was some question about the dog and his breed as well,” said Barrett.
Police say they received complaints that 36-year-old Jeremy Maschmeier had an unlicensed Pit Bull, which is illegal in Council Bluffs and numerous Ball Pythons.
“In Council Bluffs poisonous and constricting snakes are strictly prohibited,” said Barrett.
The unlicensed Pit Bull and snakes were taken from the home.
“I don't know if he was into breeding them, I don't know if it was an infatuation,” said Barrett.
Animal Control Officer Barrett says the snakes were well kept, but Maschmeier should not have had them.
"Whether you have one snake or ten snakes, it's illegal,” said Barrett.
Police cited Maschmeier for having dangerous animals in his house. He faces fines and court costs. He will appear before a judge on February 24th.
