Feds: Joe Exotic Offered Cash From Tiger Sales For Hit

Wednesday, December 19th 2018, 2:28 am

By: News On 6

Federal prosecutors are accusing an ex-Oklahoma zookeeper and former gubernatorial candidate of trying to pay an FBI agent posing as a hit man with money from selling tigers.

Court documents reveal details of what prosecutors say is a December 2017 recording of Joseph Maldonado-Passage, who goes by "Joe Exotic," negotiating with the undercover agent. The 55-year-old Maldonado-Passage is charged with trying to hire someone to kill the operator of a Florida-based animal sanctuary.

Related Story: Jailhouse Interview With Former Gubernatorial Candidate Joe "Exotic" Maldonado

He pleaded not guilty. His attorney didn't immediately return a call Tuesday seeking comment.

Maldonado-Passage also faces charges of killing tigers and selling cubs in violation of the Endangered Species Act.

Trial is set for January 8th in Oklahoma City.

Maldonado-Passage operated a zoo in Wynnewood and ran unsuccessfully for Oklahoma governor this year.