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The owner of a young tiger seized from a Puerto Vallarta condominium complex is speaking out, disputing claims that the animal was being kept or transported illegally.
Karl Allen Griggs, owner of the local restaurant Uncle Daddy’s, spoke exclusively to Out and About PV regarding the seizure of a 15-month-old female tiger (Panthera Tigris) by PROFEPA authorities on Friday, February 6, 2026, at a condominium complex located in Colonia El Caloso.
The operation involved the Mexican Army, the Navy, and local police, in coordination with the Puerto Vallarta branch of the Attorney General’s Office (FGR) and the Criminal Investigation Agency (AIC).
Griggs, a U.S. citizen, asserted that the adoption of the feline, whom he named “Sasha,” was neither illegal nor linked to criminal organizations or drug trafficking, as has been speculated. He explained the context of the acquisition:
“I served as a consultant for an organization that kept tiger cubs at Puerto Mágico to offer photographs to visitors. Through this, I became familiar with the adoption process for cubs that are born so small they risk dying because they cannot compete for food from their mother. I adopted Sasha from a conservationist and breeder in Guadalajara. These organizations seek individuals who can finance their food and care, as they lack sufficient resources.”
According to Griggs, Sasha was transported by air from Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta in late 2024 and lived with him for just over a year. The airline involved reportedly verified that all documentation was in order prior to the flight. The adopter maintains that during this period, Sasha’s health was monitored by a professional veterinarian and she received a specific diet and high-quality care.
According to his testimony, the seizure that occurred several days ago was due to the absence of an additional home inspection document, which is required due to the feline’s status as an endangered species. Consequently, he clarified that he was issued a fine and underwent an administrative process, remaining in custody before being released on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
Sasha has since been transferred to the Vallarta Zoo, located in the Mismaloya region south of the municipality. Now that he has been released, Griggs intends to ensure the feline is being properly fed and cared for, and he is currently seeking a way to relocate her to a sanctuary.
“If I have to bring food daily for Sasha and the other animals at the Vallarta Zoo, I will certainly do so,” he declared. “I adopted her because I know what it’s like to have to fight for yourself.”
Griggs claims ongoing disputes with the condo home owners association were the cause of these problems with the tiger that prompted the intervention by officials.
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