Why did ‘Swamp People’ star Troy Landry get arrested by an undercover gator agent?

Troy Landry, a star of Swamp People, is making headlines, but not for the reasons fans might expect. While viewers have been following his adventures in the bayou since the show’s premiere in 2010, recent legal troubles have taken center stage. Landry was charged with two counts of “Failing to Tag An Alligator Upon Taking,” stemming from an undercover operation by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF).

On September 18, 2024, Landry and a crew were reportedly hunting alligators in Lake Palourde when they were caught without proper tagging. According to the LDWF, Landry even admitted to cutting a dead alligator loose from his line before the agents approached him. While he has the legal right to hunt in that area, neglecting to tag the alligators has put him in a precarious situation.

This isn’t the first brush with the law for Landry recently, as he humorously noted he also received a speeding ticket the previous month. The potential penalties for his alligator hunting violations could include up to 120 days in jail and a fine of $950.

Fans might find it surprising that a seasoned alligator hunter like Landry would overlook such an important legal requirement, especially since alligator tagging has been a prominent topic on Swamp People. This incident has raised questions about hunting ethics, particularly since hunting alligators can pose risks, especially at night.

Despite these issues, Landry remains proud of his portrayal on the show, expressing appreciation for how Swamp People highlights life in the bayous. He stated, “We live simple down here because that’s the way we choose to live,” reflecting a commitment to his lifestyle and community.

As the drama unfolds, fans will be watching closely to see how Landry navigates this latest challenge while continuing his adventures in the bayou.