Felon Arrested for Carrying Live Alligator on Bourbon Street

Louisiana wildlife agents spot man with gator, firearm and marijuana in French Quarter

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries agents arrested a 25-year-old man in New Orleans' French Quarter for illegally possessing a live alligator, a firearm as a convicted felon, and marijuana. The agents spotted the man, Eurell D. Johnson, casually walking down Bourbon Street carrying the approximately 3-4 foot alligator in the early morning hours.

Why it matters

Louisiana has strict laws prohibiting the possession of alligators without proper licenses and permits, especially in high-traffic areas like the French Quarter during Mardi Gras. This arrest highlights the efforts of wildlife agents to enforce these laws and protect public safety, while also uncovering additional criminal activity.

The details

According to the LDWF report, agents on patrol in the French Quarter Enhanced Safety Zone observed Johnson, a resident of New Roads, Louisiana, walking down the 400 block of Bourbon Street carrying the live alligator around 1:30 am on February 14th. Upon further inspection, agents also found Johnson in possession of a firearm and marijuana, despite being a convicted felon which prohibits him from owning firearms.

  • On February 14th, 2026 around 1:30 am, LDWF agents spotted the suspect on Bourbon Street.
  • Agents arrested the suspect and booked him into the Orleans Parish Jail.

The players

Eurell D. Johnson

A 25-year-old resident of New Roads, Louisiana who was arrested for illegally possessing a live alligator, a firearm as a convicted felon, and marijuana.

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF)

The state agency responsible for enforcing wildlife laws and regulations, including prohibitions on the possession of alligators without proper licensing.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on Johnson's bail and whether he will be allowed to await trial outside of jail.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of wildlife conservation laws, even in urban areas, and the vigilance of Louisiana's wildlife agents in enforcing those laws to protect public safety. It also reveals the potential for other criminal activity to be uncovered through these enforcement efforts.