10-foot alligator, 9-foot python found in Crystal Lake basement

Crystal Lake authorities responding to an anonymous tip found a basement resembling an elaborate zoo, featuring a 10-foot alligator and a 9-foot python among other animals.

Officers arrived at the home on the 400 block of Linn Street about 5:45 p.m. Wednesday, said Crystal Lake Deputy Chief Eugene Lowery.

“It was not unlike what you would find in a zoo,” Lowery said. “A well-built pool to allow the gator access to water, an area for it to sun itself under a heat lamp. All the animals were in good health.”

Police said the owner, 35-year-old Anthony E. Bonfiglio, was cooperative and gave permission for the search.

Along with the alligator and reticulated python, authorities found a 5-foot-long caiman, more snakes and other smaller creatures, Lowery said.

The alligator, caiman and python were seized by animal control, but Bonfiglio was allowed to keep the other animals.

“The setup was fairly elaborate and well done,” Lowery said. “It looked like he had all the basic necessities for the animals. It was clean and well built.”

Bonfiglio was cited by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and animal control, police said.

Bonfiglio adopted the alligator and caiman about six years ago and raised them as pets, Lowery said.