Hamden, Connecticut — A lengthy investigation into the alleged illegal possession of dangerous wildlife has resulted in the seizure of 49 reptiles, including dozens of venomous snakes, from a Connecticut warehouse. Authorities say two New Haven men are now facing dozens of criminal charges after investigators discovered the animals inside the facility.
The seizure included some of the most dangerous species found in the state, including rattlesnakes, vipers and a cobra, along with two anacondas.
Major Warehouse Raid Uncovers Dozens of Reptiles
Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Environmental Conservation Police executed a search and seizure warrant at a warehouse on Sherman Avenue in Hamden on June 24.
The operation followed what officials described as a lengthy investigation into the illegal possession of venomous snakes.
Investigators worked alongside the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Connecticut State Police Bureau of Special Investigations during the raid.
Inside the warehouse, officers discovered 49 reptiles.
Of those animals, 46 were venomous snakes, while the remaining reptiles included two anacondas and one water monitor lizard.
Rattlesnakes and Cobra Among Animals Seized
Officials said the venomous snakes recovered from the property included multiple rattlesnakes, vipers and a cobra.
The state considers the animals dangerous and said they are prohibited from being possessed in Connecticut without the appropriate permits.
The discovery raised concerns not only about the legality of keeping the animals but also about the potential danger they could have posed if they escaped or were improperly handled.
Authorities said the reptiles were removed safely from the warehouse by an accredited herpetologist. The animals were then transported to a licensed facility, where officials said each reptile underwent a health screening.
Two New Haven Men Face Dozens of Charges
The investigation has resulted in charges against Brian Roman, 26, of New Haven, and Tyler Foster, 26, also of New Haven.
Authorities said Roman, who allegedly owned the warehouse building, turned himself in at Connecticut State Police Troop I on July 30.
Roman was charged with 49 counts of illegal possession of a wild animal without a permit and 13 counts of taking an endangered or threatened species.
He was subsequently released on a $5,000 court-set bond. Foster also surrendered at Troop I and was charged with the same offenses. He was released on bond as the case moves forward.
Foster Already Had Another Warrant
The reptile investigation is not the only legal matter involving Foster.
According to officials, he was previously arrested during the warehouse search on an unrelated Environmental Conservation Police warrant for first-degree criminal trespass.
That warrant allegedly stemmed from his presence in a prohibited area on Aug. 24, 2025.
Foster is scheduled to enter a plea in that separate case on Aug. 17. The latest charges involving the reptiles remain pending, and the allegations have not been proven in court.
Reptiles Now Safely Removed From Warehouse
Authorities emphasized that the animals were safely secured during the operation and removed from the warehouse without reported harm.
The seizure highlights the risks associated with keeping venomous and otherwise dangerous reptiles without proper authorization, particularly in locations not designed or licensed to house such animals.
With the reptiles now in licensed care and the two men facing numerous charges, investigators and prosecutors will determine how the alleged illegal possession case proceeds.
What do you think about the discovery of 46 venomous snakes inside a Connecticut warehouse? Should penalties be tougher for people who keep dangerous wildlife without permits? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
