Although conservation of marine life is a big deal throughout the United States, some Florida residents apparently don’t feel the same way about the issue.
Melbourne, FL, resident Stephanie Moore was apprehended after sharing photographs of herself sitting on a sea turtle in July this summer. According to Fox News, she was one of three other women seen disturbing the sea creatures.
The photo was sent via mobile app Snapchat and screenshots of the short-lived post were shared on the internet for all to see.
When a user visits a web page, they read only a little over a quarter of the content posted. Needless to say, text wasn’t necessary for Moore’s snapshot; a photo like that spoke for itself, and shortly after went viral. But it didn’t get attention for good reasons.
When the photos were seen, several complaints were issued to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission. Soon after, they opened up an official criminal investigation.
Instead, Stephanie Moore was slammed with a litany of charges, including possession, selling or disturbing a marine turtle or nest. When she was nabbed, Moore had an active arrest warrant, in failing to comply with a Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission rule.
Melbourne, FL, is a 20-mile stretch of beach along the east-central coast. According to the Sea Turtle Conservancy, Melbourne is “home to the most important sea turtle nesting habitat in the United States”.
The area is also home to around 90% of the wildlife in the United States, making wildlife conservancy a top priority. Needless to say, Moore’s social media stunt was not taken lightly.
Moore was discovered and officially arrested after officials recently responded to a disturbance at a home in Melbourne.
Upon arrival, they discovered Moore had an active warrant. Her bail is currently being held at $2,000.
