JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Beaches Sea Turtle Patrol has reported that a sea turtle was "mutilated" sometime between 5:30 p.m. Friday and 7:30 a.m. Saturday.
Turtle Patrol was not able to respond to the call immediately because it was dark outside. When Turtle Patrol arrived Saturday morning, the turtle was dead.
Harming a sea turtle is a third-degree felony in the state of Florida.
The Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission Marine Turtle Protection Program says that under state law, mutilating a sea turtle can result in a 60-day prison sentence or a fine up to $500. Under the federal U.S. Endangered Species Act of 1973, anyone who takes or harms a sea turtle or their nest can face a civil penalty up to $25,000 or a criminal penalty up to $100,000 and up to one year imprisonment.
You can also make an online report by clicking here.