Orlando attraction Sloth World cleared of criminal wrongdoing after 55 sloth deaths

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office has concluded a three-month investigation into the deaths of 55 sloths at Sloth World, a planned interactive attraction on Orlando’s International Drive, finding “no criminal wrongdoing.”

The investigation followed reports of a massive loss of life at the facility before it could officially open to the public. Detectives reviewed facility records, veterinary documentation, diagnostic findings, and inspection records from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Additionally, investigators conducted more than 20 interviews with state and national wildlife experts to examine the practices of the attraction and its founder, Ben Agresta.

Despite the scale of the animal deaths, authorities stated there was no evidence of criminal activity. The conclusion has drawn significant criticism from animal advocates and local residents.