New Roads Man Arrested for Carrying Live Alligator on Bourbon Street

Authorities say the suspect also possessed a gun and marijuana despite being a convicted felon.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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A 25-year-old man from New Roads, Louisiana was arrested early on Valentine's Day for allegedly carrying a live 3-4 foot alligator on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. In addition to the illegal possession of the alligator, the suspect was also found to be in possession of a firearm and marijuana, despite being a convicted felon.

Why it matters

Carrying a live alligator in a crowded tourist area like Bourbon Street poses significant public safety risks. The suspect's additional charges as a felon in possession of a firearm and drugs raise further concerns about the individual's criminal history and potential threat to the community.

The details

According to authorities, around 1:30 AM on February 14th, Wildlife and Fisheries agents were patrolling the French Quarter when they encountered Eurell D. Johnson carrying the live alligator in the 400 block of Bourbon Street. In addition to the alligator, agents also found Johnson in possession of a pistol and marijuana, despite him being a convicted felon.

  • The incident occurred around 1:30 AM on February 14, 2026 (Valentine's Day).

The players

Eurell D. Johnson

A 25-year-old man from New Roads, Louisiana who was arrested for illegally possessing a live alligator, a firearm, and marijuana on Bourbon Street.

Wildlife and Fisheries agents

Law enforcement officers who were patrolling the French Quarter and encountered the suspect with the live alligator.

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What’s next

Eurell D. Johnson was booked into the Orleans Parish Jail on charges of possession of a live alligator, being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of marijuana.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the unique public safety challenges that can arise in high-traffic tourist areas like Bourbon Street, where the presence of exotic animals and convicted felons with firearms and drugs can put the community at risk. It underscores the importance of vigilant law enforcement and strict enforcement of relevant laws and regulations.