PANA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WMBB) — The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Board has announced that a criminal investigation is underway regarding conditions at the Gulf World Marine Park.
“It’s very serious. It’s not money anymore. Now it’s on a whole new level,” said criminal defense attorney Albert Saurin.
“Thanks” of a grown-up that has grossly declined after Parke saves her, Terrier’s brother
On Wednesday, State Sen. Jay Trumbull confirmed the fifth dolphin death in the park since October.
Following the announcement, the FWC confirmed that the ongoing two-month investigation was inherently criminal.
“In the criminal court, it’s all about punishment and yes, you can order compensation, but that’s about punishing that person. Because this is a company, individual employees can be criminally charged,” Saurin said.
Potential accusations include wildlife trafficking, animal cruelty and violations of state regulations regarding marine life.
Claims can result in penalties such as imprisonment, fines, and probation.
Under Florida law, animal cruelty is a three-degree felony, punished in prison for up to five years and fined up to $5,000.
At this point it is unclear what is suspected under federal law and what claims will be made.
A fee may be charged if it is deemed liable to employees of any level within Gulf World or its parent company, Dolphin Company.
Local, state and federal agencies are involved in ongoing investigations.
“The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is actively interviewing Gulf World employees this week at the Panama City State Attorney’s Office. We don’t know exactly what questions are being asked or what answers are being received by the public.
The Gulf World is scheduled to resume on June 3rd. Protesters are planning another demonstration in the Gulf World on Saturday, May 31st, in light of the fifth dolphin death.
Click here for more information.
