11-foot, 750-pound blind alligator seized from Hamburg, NY, home, gator used as attraction

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation officers made a significant discovery in Hamburg on Wednesday.

They seized an 11-foot, 750-pound alligator being kept at a home without a permit.

The homeowner had built an addition to the house and installed an in-ground pool for the 30-year-old alligator, allegedly allowing people to interact with it in the water.

The alligator, named Albert, has health issues and was turned over to a licensed caretaker for proper care. The NYS DEC is investigating, and charges may be filed pending a veterinary exam.

The owner, Tony, shared details on Facebook, sparking public support and a petition with over 10,000 signatures to help him keep Albert.