Cameron Parish, Louisiana – Federal authorities are offering a $20,000 reward for information that leads to a conviction after a tragic incident involving a young dolphin found shot to death on a Louisiana beach last month.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Fisheries Service reported the discovery of the lifeless bottlenose dolphin on West Mae’s Beach in Cameron Parish on March 13. The deceased dolphin was promptly taken to the Audubon Nature Institute in New Orleans for further examination.
Following a necropsy conducted at the institute, officials disclosed grim findings of multiple bullets lodged in the dolphin’s brain, spinal cord, and heart. This disturbing revelation has sparked an investigation by the NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement, urging the community to come forward with any pertinent information regarding the dolphin’s untimely demise.
Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, it is deemed a crime to harm, harass, capture, or kill any marine mammal, including dolphins. Those found violating this law could face hefty fines of up to $100,000 as well as potential jail time. In response to this appalling act, NOAA Fisheries has announced a $20,000 reward for information that aids in securing a criminal conviction or imposing a civil penalty related to the dolphin’s demise.
Individuals possessing crucial details concerning this distressing incident are encouraged to reach out to the NOAA Enforcement Hotline at (800) 853-1964. The community’s cooperation is essential in bringing justice to the innocent marine creature that fell victim to such a violent and senseless act.