Marriage In Federal Prison? Joe Exotic, 'Tiger King,' Seeks Approval To Tie The Knot Behind Bars

Article via El Planteo

Joseph Maldonado, widely known as "Joe Exotic" or the "Tiger King," has filed an application to marry fellow inmate Jorge Marquez Flores while both serve sentences at FMC Fort Worth, a federal prison in Texas. Maldonado, who rose to fame for his dramatic saga in the exotic animal industry and subsequent conviction, is navigating a complex legal landscape as he pursues both an appeal and the chance to wed Marquez Flores within the prison's confines.

The two met during their incarceration, forming a strong bond that Maldonado now seeks to formalize through marriage. Marquez Flores, originally from Mexico, is serving time solely for immigration-related offenses and faces deportation upon release. Citing the potential threats Marquez Flores could encounter if returned to Mexico, Maldonado has enlisted Texas immigration attorney Francisco Hernandez to file for asylum on Marquez Flores's behalf. "Jorge needs help from either Biden or whoever wins on November 5, 2024," Maldonado noted, stressing the urgency of Marquez Flores's situation due to Mexico's challenges with violence.

According to Maldonado, the connection with Marquez Flores was instantaneous and their bond has grown stronger over time. This union, however, hinges on both prison approval and the success of Marquez Flores's asylum plea, making their case more than a typical marriage application.

Maldonado remains hopeful for a favorable resolution in his appeal, with a release date potentially aligning with Marquez Flores' expected release in mid-2025. His legal team, including attorneys Rodger Roots, John Pierce and John Phillips, is pursuing an appeal that could see Maldonado freed in the coming years. "Living in America and being kept in federal prison when the Department of Justice has the evidence that I am innocent doesn’t give me much of a bright outlook for this country anyways," Maldonado remarked, expressing his hopes for a presidential pardon to expedite his freedom.

Yet, Maldonado is prepared for the possibility that Marquez Flores may face deportation despite the asylum request. He has expressed a willingness to join Marquez Flores in Mexico if needed, should they not receive the necessary approvals for both the marriage and Marquez Flores' asylum.

In the meantime, Maldonado's request remains under review, his story another chapter in the saga that has followed him from his days managing exotic animals to his current place in federal prison.

Photo courtesy of Joe Exotic

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