Florida looking into criminal investigation for Orlando Sloth World deaths

ORLANDO, Fla. – Florida prosecutors are looking into whether criminal charges are possible after dozens of sloths died ahead of the opening of Sloth World in Orlando.

On Friday, Attorney General James Uthmeier responded to a call for a criminal investigation from State Rep. Anna Eskamani, D-Orlando.

Sloth World was supposed to open as an attraction on International Drive. But that is not happening now, after it was learned that 31 sloths intended for the attraction had died between December of 2024 and February of last year.

[WATCH: Lawmaker calls for criminal investigation after sloth dies following rescue from Orlando attraction]

Another 13 sloths meant for the attraction were transferred to the Central Florida Zoo in Sanford. Doctors say the animals were in various states of dehydration and malnutrition.

One of those animals, a three-month-old baby named Bandit, died this week, the zoo reported.

In the wake of Bandit’s death, Eskamani called on state and federal agencies to investigate the business and its owner.

[WATCH: Central Florida Zoo doctors say 13 Sloth World sloths have dehydration, malnutrition]

In talking to News 6 earlier this week, Eskamani also raised concerns about potential gaps in Florida law, warning that without enforcement or legislative changes, similar situations could happen again.

“If there’s not criminal charges and if there’s not a closing of these loopholes in Florida law, nothing stops someone from pursuing the same type of business model,” she said.

According to Uthmeier, it will be up to Orange-Osceola State Attorney Monique Worrell to determine if any criminal charges can be brought against Sloth World’s owners.

Uthmeier said Lauryn Day, a senior assistant statewide prosecutor and animal welfare law expert, is working with Worrell’s office.

“Our office is unwavering in its commitment to pursuing justice on behalf of those who are unable to protect themselves,” Uthmeier wrote to Eskamani. “We will ensure accountability wherever the evidence requires.”

Eskamani said the investigation was about making sure nothing like this happens again in Florida.

“Grateful to see this become a bipartisan issue. We’ll keep up the drumbeat for accountability until there are real answers and real consequences,” she posted on X.com .