NOAA Finds Culprit in Dolphin Death Case

Photo credit: AL.com

We have an update to a very tragic story we first brought you in 2014. Federal investigators have determined who is responsible for the death of a dolphin in Alabama.

The dolphin was struck by an arrow and found dead in an Ocean Beach bayou on December 6, 2014. The carcass was discovered nearly a week after the fatal blow.

NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement investigated the unnatural death and have now determined that the culprit was a juvenile.

The shooter admitted to his actions in writing, saying the dolphin was shot in Florida state waters in November.

The bow that was used has been confiscated, but since the shooter is a minor, their name and any pending criminal charges cannot be released to the public.

As a reminder, the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 prohibits anyone from harassing, harming, killing or feeding wild dolphins. Violations could in jail for up to a year, or cost up to $100,000 in fines.

Agents with NOAA who investigated this violation say the public attention helped spur the public to send in tips.

“NOAA federal agents are grateful to the other enforcement agencies assisting with the case as well as the help received from the public and the media. The publicity and tips helped federal agents find the person responsible for this incident,” a press release states.

There was a $24,000 reward for information on that case from several marine centers and conservation societies, but since this investigation is ongoing, its unclear how the money will be paid out.

NOAA continues to investigate a second dolphin death in the Florida area. If you know anything about it, call 1-850-729-8628 or the NOAA Enforcement Hotline at 1-800-853-1964 as soon as possible.

Tips may be left anonymously and the reward offered by the Whale and Dolphin Conservation stands at $2,500 for information leading to arrest and prosecution.

To report a stranded, injured or sick dolphin, call 1-877-WHALE-HELP (1-877-942-5343).

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