Florida leaders want investigation into Sloth World

Florida State Rep. Anna Eskamani and Congressman Maxwell Frost both requested state or federal investigations into Sloth World, following the deaths of more than 31 sloths under its care. Rep. Eskamani sent the Florida Attorney General's Office a letter asking that an investigation be opened. Late Friday morning, AG James Uthmeier said his officer was working with the State Attorney's Office for the Ninth Judicial Circuit on an "ongoing criminal investigation" into Sloth World. Rep. Eskamani was also asking if Florida laws needed to be revisited. According to the FWC, sloths are allowed under a Class III license. Under that license, operators do not have to notify FWC of animal imports before they arrive, but within 72 hours after arrival. Under that license, there is no requirement to notify FWC of animal illnesses or deaths -- only "escapes, bite incidents, and transfers." The FWC told FOX 35 late Thursday that it had a record of 61 sloth being imported to Florida between December 2024 and March 2026. However, it's not clear if that includes transfers or not.