CAMERON PARISH, La. – A young dolphin found shot to death on a Louisiana beach has sparked outrage, leading federal officials to offer a $20,000 reward for information that could lead to a conviction in the case.
The dolphin, a dead bottlenose dolphin, was discovered on West Mae’s Beach in Cameron Parish on March 13. It was later taken to the Audubon Nature Institute in New Orleans for further examination, where a necropsy revealed tragic details.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Fisheries Service, the necropsy showed that the dolphin had multiple bullets lodged in its brain, spinal cord, and heart. This discovery has prompted the NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement to launch an investigation into the incident.
Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, harming or killing marine mammals, including dolphins, is illegal and punishable by hefty fines and potential jail time. The public is urged to come forward with any information regarding the dolphin’s death to aid in the investigation.
In an effort to incentivize cooperation, NOAA Fisheries is offering a $20,000 reward for any information that leads to a criminal conviction or the imposition of a civil penalty in this case. Those with relevant information are urged to contact the NOAA Enforcement Hotline at (800) 853-1964.
The senseless killing of this dolphin has raised concerns about the welfare and protection of marine life in the region. Authorities are calling on the community to assist in bringing justice for the innocent animal and to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding laws that safeguard our marine ecosystems and the creatures that inhabit them. It is essential for individuals to report any acts of violence against marine mammals to ensure their well-being and conservation.