Griswold orders man to stop breeding snakes

GRISWOLD, Conn. (AP) — Griswold officials have asked a local resident to stop breeding snakes in his home.

The Norwich Bulletin reports that Randy LaPorte has about 300 snakes in the basement of the house on E. Main Street.

Building inspector Peter Zvingilas says LaPorte has not complied with a cease-and-desist order issued for running a snake-breeding business without a permit.

LaPorte could not be reached for comment Thursday. A phone number listed for the home was not in service.

The town began investigating in March after receiving an anonymous complaint. An inspection found the snakes, and said they were kept "clean and organized." But health officials also said the area needed additional cleaning and ventilation.

First Selectman Philip Anthony says the issue has been turned over to the town’s zoning attorney.

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Information from: Norwich Bulletin