Albert The Alligator Not Coming Back To Western New York

It looks like the battle to bring one of the most famous reptiles in Western New York back home to the 716 is over. Albert the Alligator is not expected to return to Western New York.

Legal Battle Over Albert The Alligator Is Coming To An End

A two-year legal battle between Tony Cavallaro and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation looks like it will be coming to an end.

The New York State DEC seized Albert the Alligator back in March of 2024, and a battle over him has ensued ever since. Now, it looks like that battle is over.

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Tony Cavallaro's lawyer told WIVB that a Federal Judge's ruling is what is prompting Cavallaro to drop his lawsuit to bring Albert Home. The judge had ruled that the state had 30 days to reconsider a renewed application, if filed. That could have led to another denial from the state, triggering another round of lengthy courtroom battles.

Albert was sent to an alligator rehab farm in Texas when he was seized back in 2024 and is now expected to live out his days there after this latest news.

Why Was Albert The Alligator Taken?

The State DEC seized Albert back in 2024 when it learned the permit that Tony Cavallaro had to own Albert expired in 2021 and was not renewed. The state claimed Albert was being mistreated and living in a place not suitable for alligators.

That seizure triggered the legal battle that now appears to be over.

Do you think it is right that Albert won't be coming home to WNY, or is it better for him to live with other gators in Texas? Let me know using our station APP.

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