FWC INVESTIGATORS FOIL ILLEGAL MONKEY SALE.

TALLAHASSEE, FL -- The following information was released by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC):

Working on a tip, investigators with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) searched Internet classifieds to track down a Broward County man who was attempting to sell a marmoset monkey illegally. Anyone possessing or selling these exotic primates must have a valid permit issued by the FWC.

Last week, officers made contact with the seller. They arranged to meet him at his home to view the monkey. The asking price for the small monkey was $2,700.

Jesus R. Hernandez (DOB 02/26/85) of Fort Lauderdale was charged with several violations relating to the possession, sale and caging of wildlife, all misdemeanors.

Hernandez could not provide investigators with the permit required to possess or sell the monkey. He also stated he did not have records of acquisition for the monkey. Additionally, the monkey was held in a cage which does not meet requirements for monkeys 12 months of age or older.

The monkey was taken to a licensed wildlife facility. Hernandez was issued a notice to appear in court.