Suspect also charged with carrying concealed without a permit
When a 12-foot American alligator was found dead along Highway 264 in Dare County, NC this March, Officer John Schlegel immediately launched an investigation.
A necropsy conducted with one of NCWRC’s wildlife biologists revealed the nearly 50-year-old alligator had been shot multiple times.
Working alongside Officer Alex McPhail, the officers soon identified a suspect who later admitted to unlawfully killing the animal.
Last month, the local resident pleaded guilty to unlawfully taking an American alligator and was sentenced to pay $2,283 in fines and replacement costs, complete 200 hours of community service, and forfeit the firearm used in the crime
In an unforeseen plot twist, officers didn’t have to look far for the weapon. On the same day the alligator was shot, law enforcement had already seized the firearm after the suspect was caught carrying it concealed without a permit.
This case highlights the dedication of our officers and biologists in protecting North Carolina’s wildlife and holding violators accountable.
You can help protect our wildlife by reporting violations using NC WILDTIP. ■
Be the first to comment