Boy left with 19 snakes

Published 11:13 pm Thursday, July 14, 2011

Suffolk police arrested a 28-year-old man Wednesday after they say they found his 7-year-old son home alone with 19 snakes, two pit bulls and several other animals.

Emmanuel Velazquez, 28, is charged with cruelty and injuries to children.

The incident occurred July 2, according to city spokeswoman Debbie George. Police received a call from the 7-year-old who said his dog was missing, George said.

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While speaking to the child, the dispatcher learned he was home alone, George said. An officer responded and confirmed the child was home alone. The child also told the officer he frequently stayed home unsupervised while his father worked.

The officer found 19 snakes, some bearded-dragon lizards, two pit bulls and some feeder mice in the residence, George said.

Police also had contact with Velazquez in June, when his 5-year-old was found walking along Godwin Boulevard alone. The case was referred to Child Protective Services, and no charges have been filed, George said.

Animal control officers determined the man’s ownership of the pets is legal, George said.