Thousands of flying squirrels captured in Florida, trafficked with estimated $1M worth, officials say


By Wilson Wong

Seven people were charged in a trafficking operation that trapped thousands of flying squirrels in Florida with an estimated retail value of over $1 million and sold them to buyers in Asia, state wildlife officials said.

Flying squirrels, a protected wild animal in Florida, are sold internationally in the pet trade.

Six suspects have been arrested while one remains a fugitive. The seven face a variety of felony charges that include racketeering, money laundering and dealing in stolen property.

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Image: Preparing for take-off after being released a Glaucomys sabrinus, Northern Flying Squirrel, readies to jump.
Preparing for take-off after being released a Glaucomys sabrinus, Northern Flying Squirrel, readies to jump.Steve Russell / Toronto Star via Getty Images file

Suspects charged in the case include:

  • Rodney Crendell Knox, 66, Bushnell, Florida
  • Kenneth Lee Roebuck, 59, Lake Panasoffkee, Florida
  • Donald Lee Harrod Jr., 49, Bushnell, Florida
  • Vester Ray Taylor Jr., 40, Webster, Florida
  • Jong Yun Baek, 56, Marietta, Georgia
  • Ervin Woodyard Jr, 40, Greenville, Georgia
  • An unnamed fugitive
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