I still cant comprehend exactly what is going on in this guys mind,. especially as you say he is family or good friends or what ever the relationship.
When he craps on about the AVO have you told him you are quite happy to leave him alone once he gives your animals back you want nothing to do with him.
I cant imagine what his argument is for not returning them?
He obviously knows he is in the wrong and they are not his snakes to keep,. what is his argument?
Surely if he is unlicensed National Parks can do something?
How is it that they can come & randomly knock on well respected Breeders doors and go poking around but they cant investigate this dodgey pest & get your snakes back that this guy is keeping illegally & unlicensed?
Must be extremely frustrating for you guys,. I am getting hot & angry just reading this,. so I can only imagine how you guys feel.
I really hope you get them back,.
What do you think he would do if you busted into his house & just took them back?
Is he a big fella?
If you cant get them back legally or if he is not going to hand them over without a fight Unfortunately you may have to take the law into your own hands as others have already suggested,. do you know any scary guys or bikers or something?
AVO? ppfffttt