(CNS): Two poachers who admitted taking a female green turtle from a marine park in South Sound in January last year were handed a fine of CI$4,566 between them last month, when they were finally sentenced for taking the endangered animal and spearing her multiple times with a wooden striker (hook stick). The turtle did not survive.
Osberne Alex Scott and Shaun Matthias Moore were apprehended by Department of Environment conservation officers who gave chase after being alerted to the suspected poaching.
According to the DoE, the officers drove after the men as they tried to get away with the dying turtle. But the men took a bend too fast and overturned the trailer carrying the boat, which in turn tipped the turtle onto the road.
The DoE officers quickly recovered the turtle and took her to a vet, but several spear wounds had penetrated through her shell. Despite the vet’s efforts to save her, the turtle, who was between 10 and 15 years old, died.
Chadd Bush, the lead conservation officer on the case, said the DoE was pleased with the successful prosecution, which reflects the hard work of the enforcement team. “While many poaching incidents go undetected or lack the evidence to proceed, this case allowed us to secure justice for a particularly brutal act of animal cruelty.
“It is heartbreaking to lose a reproductive female who would have continued to nest for many years to come, but we are grateful we intercepted the offenders before they could escape. As turtle season begins, we ask the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately. These animals are a national treasure, and our teams will be patrolling day and night to ensure their protection,” he said.
DoE Deputy Director of Operations and Enforcement Bradley Johnson said the imposition of substantial fines in this case marks a pivotal step forward in conservation enforcement.
“It signals widespread acceptance that offences against the National Conservation Act deserve stiff penalties. The Department of Environment remains committed to protecting Cayman’s native species and natural environment and appreciates the community’s continued support in reporting these incidents,” he added.
In addition to issuing the fine, the authorities seized the repeat offenders’ truck, trailer and boat. The striker, which is considered a speargun under the law, was also taken.
All sea turtles are endangered, and there are fewer than 250 mating pairs in Cayman Islands waters. They are protected at all times under the National Conservation Act.
Anyone who sees poaching of any marine life is asked to call 916-4271.
