Norristown, Pa. Raid Nets Drugs, Gun, Plus 2 Alligators and Other 'Pets'
NORRISTOWN, Pa. (CBS) - A Norristown man who prosecutors say has an extensive criminal history is under arrest on charges that include drug trafficking, forgery, and theft.
Detectives say they uncovered some unusual animals when they executed a search warrant at the man's apartment.
After police executed the search warrant this morning on Corson Street in Norristown, they arrested 36-year-old Izek Tuggle. Inside the apartment they found two alligators, a pit bull, and a scorpion they say Tuggle used to intimidate potential drug customers.
Montgomery County first assistant DA Kevin Steele says police also found a loaded nine-millimeter handgun.
"And it is a bit surprising to find, along with a gun, alligators, scorpion, pit bull -- a number of things that this drug dealer was using to protect his illicit business," he said today.
And Steele says Tuggle had a business on the side, cleaning doctors' offices in the area. He says Tuggle would steal prescription pads, then forge the doctor's signature to get drugs like Percocet from area pharmacies.
Police also believe marijuana was being grown inside the apartment.
Reported by Brad Segall, KYW Newsradio 1060
