Stop Marine Murder and Save Dolphin Lives
1,247 signatures toward our 30,000 Goal
Sponsor: The Animal Rescue Site
A young dolphin was found shot dead on a Louisiana beach—call for stricter penalties to protect marine life from senseless violence!
In a heartbreaking incident at West Mae’s Beach in Cameron Parish, Louisiana, a juvenile bottlenose dolphin was discovered dead, its body bearing the grim evidence of multiple gunshot wounds.
This violent act against a protected marine species underscores a larger issue of cruelty that no creature should endure1.
A Shocking Discovery
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) was alerted to this devastating event by a concerned citizen. The Audubon Aquarium Rescue, a stranding network partner of NOAA, recovered the dolphin and performed a necropsy. The findings were alarming: bullets lodged in the dolphin’s brain, spinal cord, and heart, confirming the cause of death as these severe injuries2.
This egregious act is not only heartrending but also illegal under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which prohibits harming, harassing, or killing marine mammals. Violators can face severe penalties, including fines up to $100,000 and up to one year in jail per violation3.
Despite these laws, the enforcement and penalties often fall short of what is necessary to deter such heinous crimes.
Why It Matters
Marine creatures like dolphins play essential roles in their ecosystems and have intrinsic value as sentient beings with social structures and high intelligence. Their protection is not just about preserving biodiversity but about maintaining the balance of marine environments that are vital to human life as well.
Our Call to Action
In response to this tragic incident and the need for stronger enforcement, we are petitioning NOAA and its Office of Law Enforcement to increase the penalties for animal cruelty against marine life. We believe that tougher sanctions will serve as a stronger deterrent against such acts of violence and show a commitment to the humane treatment of all wildlife.
We need your voice to ensure that these changes are made. By signing the petition, you are standing up for marine life and helping to secure a future where our oceans' creatures are safe from cruelty and violence.
Act Now
Join us in demanding stricter penalties for those who commit acts of violence against marine wildlife. Your support is crucial in pushing for legislation that will provide real protection for these vulnerable creatures.
Sign the petition now to make a difference. Let’s ensure a safer, more compassionate world for our marine life.
- Jon Haworth, ABC7 News (24 April 2024), "Dead dolphin found on beach with bullets lodged in brain, spinal cord, and heart."
- NOAA Fisheries (23 April 2024), "Louisiana Dolphin Shot Dead."
- Kaycee Sloan, WTRF (25 April 2024), "Dolphin found dead on beach with ‘multiple’ gunshot wounds."
The Petition:
To the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and NOAA's Office of Law Enforcement,
We, the undersigned, are deeply concerned citizens who urge the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and NOAA's Office of Law Enforcement to strengthen the penalties for acts of wanton animal cruelty, specifically the shooting and killing of marine creatures. The recent tragic incident involving a juvenile bottlenose dolphin found shot dead on West Mae’s Beach in Cameron Parish, Louisiana, highlights the urgent need for action.
Marine creatures, such as dolphins, play crucial roles in maintaining the health and balance of our ecosystems. They are not only vital to marine biodiversity but also beloved for their intelligence and social nature. Acts of cruelty against these sentient beings not only result in loss of life but also harm the biological equilibrium and diminish the beauty and diversity of our natural world.
We call on NOAA and its Office of Law Enforcement to impose stricter penalties and enforce tougher regulations to deter such heinous acts against marine wildlife. By doing so, we can send a clear message that our society does not tolerate cruelty and that we are committed to the humane treatment of all creatures.
Increasing penalties for crimes against marine life will not only serve justice for the wronged animals but will also foster a more respectful and caring attitude towards all forms of life. This shift is essential for ensuring a sustainable and compassionate future for our planet.
We believe that by taking decisive action to protect our marine wildlife, NOAA can lead the way in promoting a more humane and just world. We urge you to consider our plea seriously and act swiftly to amend and enforce laws that will safeguard the lives of marine creatures.
Let us stand together to ensure a better future for all beings on Earth.
Sincerely,
