$5,000 Reward Offered For Information On The Illegal Killing Of A Threatened Sea Turtle In North Carolina

The Center for Biological Diversity is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the illegal killing of a threatened loggerhead sea turtle, which is protected under the federal Endangered Species Act.

Officials report that the sea turtle was found alive near Smyrna, N.C., on Aug. 26, but had to be euthanized, due to what appeared to be a deliberate head injury. Two local sea turtle organizations are offering an additional $1,350 reward, bringing the total to $6,350.

“It’s sickening to think that someone would harm a defenseless sea turtle,” said Jaclyn Lopez, Florida director at the Center. “We hope this reward helps prompt anyone with information about who did this to come forward. These imperiled animals need protection, not abuse.”

Loggerhead sea turtles nest on the shores of the southeastern United States. When they’re not coming ashore to nest, they feed, breed and spend the rest of their lives at sea.

Loggerheads in the southeast are considered threatened and protected against harm under the Endangered Species Act. Violations can be prosecuted civilly or criminally and are punishable with fines up to $24,625 and six months in prison.

Anyone with information about this case should call the NOAA Enforcement Hotline 1-800-853-1964. Thank you!