Miami Lakes Man Arrested for Alligator Poaching in Big Cypress
Arrest Made After Tip to Wildlife Alert Hotline
A Miami Lakes man was arrested for alleged alligator poaching at Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area, officials said.
Vincent Edward Quinn, 37, Arrested on Felony and Misdemeanor Charges
Vincent Edward Quinn, 37, was arrested Saturday on one felony and four misdemeanors for violating state law regarding illegal harvest of an alligator, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials said.
Tip Leads to Investigation
FWC officials said they’d received a tip on their Wildlife Alert Hotline that a person was witnessed taking an alligator from Loop Road in Big Cypress in Monroe County.
Witness Description
The witness reported seeing Quinn dump the alligator carcass, leaving the area with just the tail, officials said.
Investigation Leads to Arrest
Investigators tracked down Quinn at his home and found the poached alligator tail being processed in his backyard.
Quinn’s Admission to Illegal Activity
Quinn admitted to illegally taking the alligator, and the tail was seized as evidence, officials said.
Importance of Alligator Conservation
The FWC said taking an alligator outside of the designated hunting season and without permits is illegal. It is essential to protect these animals and their habitats to ensure the long-term health of the ecosystem.
FAQs
Q: Why was Vincent Edward Quinn arrested?
A: Quinn was arrested for alleged alligator poaching at Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area.
Q: What was the tip that led to the investigation?
A: A witness reported seeing someone take an alligator from Loop Road in Big Cypress in Monroe County.
Q: What was found at Quinn’s home?
A: Investigators found the poached alligator tail being processed in Quinn’s backyard.
Q: What is the significance of alligator poaching?
A: It is illegal and can harm the long-term health of the ecosystem. Alligators play a crucial role in the ecosystem, and their protection is essential.
