Hawksbill Turtle Slayer Fined

June 30, 2016

A Manchester man captured on video gruesomely slaying a Hawksbill Turtle in Alligator Pond, Manchester late last year has been brought to justice.

Manchester Parish Judge Dale Staple on Tuesday 29 June sentenced Mr. Leroy McDonald after he pleaded guilty to the charges of the possession and hunting of a protected animal.

Mr. McDonald has been ordered to pay a fine of $50,000 or spend one month in prison at hard labour. McDonald has also been ordered to do 50 hours of community service.

Commenting on the conviction, Ms Morjorn Wallock, Director Legal Services and Enforcement at NEPA said the conviction serves as a deterrent and reminded the public that it is an offence under the Wild Life Protection Act (WLPA) to possess, hunt, kill capture or willfully molest any protected animal. She added that the full list of species covered by the WLPA is available on the Agency’s website at www.nepa.gov.jm.

Individuals found guilty of the offence may be charged a maximum fine of $100,000 or face one year imprisonment. NEPA urges members of the public to report any such illegal activities at 754-7540 or 1-888-991-5005. Persons may also call 119 or make a report to the nearest police station.

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