For over 32 years, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR) has been a beacon of hope for big cats rescued from neglect, abuse, and exploitation. Among those saved is Fred, a young tiger whose story embodies the tragic consequences of illegal wildlife trade—and the sanctuary’s unwavering commitment to providing rescued animals with a second chance at life.
A Desperate Call for Help
In April 2023, TCWR received an urgent call from the US Fish and Wildlife Service. A male tiger cub, later named Fred, required immediate placement after being seized due to violations of the Big Cat Public Safety Act (BCPSA). The BCPSA, which became law in December 2022, put an end to private ownership and cub petting, making cases like Fred’s increasingly common. However, his circumstances were particularly disturbing.
Fred’s previous owner, implicated in the broader Operation Early Harvest criminal case, reportedly abused him, using physical punishment as a means of control. Instead of receiving proper nutrition, Fred was fed only rats, an inadequate diet for a growing tiger. When he arrived at Turpentine Creek on April 4, 2023, he was found wearing a dog harness so tight that it restricted his movement. The TCWR team quickly removed the constraining harness, allowing Fred to take his first unrestricted steps into a new chapter of his life.
Adjusting to a New Life
Fred’s journey to recovery began immediately. Initially, he hesitated to engage with his new environment. When he first encountered a log in his enclosure, he seemed to expect punishment for touching it. But when his caregivers encouraged his curiosity, he responded with excitement—an early sign of the resilience that would define his journey. He then discovered his water dish and, in a moment of pure joy, splashed and played as if he had never seen such an abundance of water before.
A veterinary examination conducted by Dr. Kellyn revealed that Fred’s muscles were underdeveloped, particularly in his hind limbs. Thankfully, there were no signs of Metabolic Bone Disease, but lab results confirmed he had a parasite that required immediate treatment. With proper nutrition, vitamin supplementation, and regular veterinary care, Fred began to grow stronger.
One month later, Fred was introduced to his outdoor habitat. Tentatively, he stepped onto the grass, surveying his vast new home. Then, realizing his newfound freedom, he sprinted down a hill, exploring hiding spots, playing with his toys, and, to his delight, discovering a massive pool to splash in.
The Fight Against Illegal Wildlife Trade
Due to the ongoing investigation, Fred’s case had to remain confidential for nearly a year. He was placed in the Witness Protection Program, limiting what could be shared about his rescue. However, in March 2024, Operation Early Harvest resulted in 56 arrests—including 41 felony charges and 51 misdemeanors—bringing the truth of Fred’s story to light.
Among those convicted were Keidrick Damond Usifo and Deon Johnson, two Arkansas men who were found guilty of violating the BCPSA. Usifo, 30, was sentenced to five years’ probation and a $5,000 fine, while Johnson, 29, received 18 months’ probation and a $1,000 fine for his role in concealing the illegal transaction. Their arrests highlight the disturbing reality of big cat trafficking in the U.S., where cubs like Fred are bred, sold, and often mistreated by individuals unprepared to meet their complex needs.
“This is exactly why the Big Cat Public Safety Act was passed,” said Tanya Smith, President of TCWR. “These animals are not pets, and they should never be treated as merchandise. Fred was a victim of greed and ignorance, but thanks to the enforcement of the law and our partnership with federal authorities, he will now live a life free from exploitation.”
Thriving in Sanctuary
Now, over a year since his rescue, Fred has grown into a strong, playful young tiger weighing more than 100 pounds. Though his early days were marked by mistreatment, he has embraced his new life at TCWR. He still exhibits some of the aggressive tendencies learned from his rough past, often stalking and pouncing at his caregivers, but with time, he is learning to trust. Placed near Priscilla and her triplets, Fred has the opportunity to observe and adopt natural tiger behaviors, a crucial step in his rehabilitation.
As part of TCWR’s commitment to ethical wildlife care, the Refuge has been accepted into the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Wildlife Conservation Network (AZA WCN)—a prestigious recognition that underscores TCWR’s high standards of animal welfare, conservation, and ethical wildlife care. This designation strengthens the Refuge’s ability to collaborate with trusted conservation organizations, government agencies, and accredited sanctuaries to address the ongoing crisis of big cat trafficking.
Help Fred and Others Like Him
Fred’s journey is one of resilience and hope. However, his story is also a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against the illegal big cat trade. Without the enforcement of the BCPSA, Fred might have faced a lifetime of neglect and mistreatment. Instead, he now thrives in a safe, enriched environment where he can be the tiger he was always meant to be.
Turpentine Creek is dedicated to ensuring that more cats like Fred find sanctuary. With Freedom Field, the Refuge has expanded its capacity to provide lifelong care to rescued big cats. However, these efforts require support. Caring for a single big cat costs an average of $25,000 per year. By sponsoring Fred or contributing to the Witness Protection Program, supporters can help provide rescued tigers with the medical care, diet, and enrichment they need.
Fred’s story proves that change is possible—but only with continued advocacy and support. You can help Fred and others like him by donating today. Together, we can ensure that no big cat suffers in silence.