The controversial and financially troubled SeaQuest aquarium in Folsom is reportedly under new ownership, pending court approval, as part of a broader sale of the bankrupt interactive aquarium chain that has more that financial woes to contend with following allegations and citations surrounding animal neglect.
SeaQuest, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in December 2024 amid allegations of abuse and neglect, has been in the process of selling its remaining properties. The proposed buyer is reportedly Z&A Management LLC, owned by Jeff Cox, who previously held a 4% stake in the company. The sale, which includes locations in Utah, Las Vegas, Minnesota, Boise, and Folsom, is awaiting a judge’s approval in a scheduled hearing on January 28.
According to reports on Monday, new ownership paperwork under the name NorCal Aquarium and Wildlife Adventures has been filed for the Folsom location in the Palladio Mall. SeaQuest reportedly owed the mall approximately $160,000 in unpaid dues before its bankruptcy filing.
SeaQuest, once touted as the fastest-growing zoo and aquarium chain in the world, has faced mounting scrutiny over accusations of animal neglect, unsanitary conditions, and unsafe human-animal interactions. In the wake of the controversy, earnings by the company declined more that $12 million over a two year period leading up to their bankruptcy filing.
An investigation by ABC10 last year uncovered allegations of mistreatment, leading to increased pressure from California lawmakers, including Assemblymember Josh Hoover of Folsom’s 7th District. The backlash contributed to the company’s financial downfall, the resignation of its CEO, Vince Covino, and the closure of several locations.
The local Assemblyman wrote to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife last year, requesting the department launch a formal investigation into the allegations in the wake of the detailed ABC1O report, that stated that former employees of the Folsom location had come forwards with information and images of alleged animal abuse. The report also cited that sources revealed that some 1,000 animals had reportedly died across multiple locations of the company.
“It is important that children and families have the opportunity to experience animals up close to develop an appreciation for them, but this should only be done in a way that protects the safety of the animals and maintains compliance with all legal standards,” Hoover wrote in his request. Shortly thereafter, the company received critical citations from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
The future of the SeaQuest brand remains uncertain as the bankruptcy proceedings continue. Officials with the Palladio have declined to comment on the status of the space or the ongoing legal process.
