Man bitten by venomous pet snake faces charges

By Laurie Davison, Reporter
Last Updated:

TAMPA --

A Tampa man bitten by his 18-inch-long pet Gaboon viper now faces multiple charges.

Jamie DePriest, 31, faces eight second-degree misdemeanor charges, including failing to cage the snake and keeping it without a permit.

The incident happened at DePriest's home on W. Anderson Avenue Tuesday afternoon.

DePriest drove himself to St. Joseph's Hospital, where he was admitted and treated for a bite to his left index finger. He is currently in fair condition.

Lt. Steve DeLacure with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) said the home was evacuated when he arrived because no one knew where the snake was.

The snake was eventually found in its aquarium, with no top on it.

DePriest said he bought the snake in New York and brought it to Florida.

Each charge is punishable by up to $500 and/or 60 days in jail.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office is also investigating because there were two children living in the home with DePriest

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