This article is part of a 10-article series on the legal trouble Spring Breakers can find themselves in if they aren’t careful. From open container violations to trespassing on boats, Florida’s laws can turn a fun vacation into a legal nightmare. Stay informed, stay out of trouble, and know your rights.
A Fun Day on the Water Can Quickly Turn Into a Legal Nightmare
Florida’s waterways and beaches are a prime destination for Spring Breakers looking to enjoy the sun and sea. However, what many don’t realize is that Florida enforces some of the strictest wildlife protection laws in the country – and violating them can lead to serious criminal charges.
Brandon Dinetz, a criminal defense attorney and a former prosecutor, has defended numerous clients facing charges for wildlife violations, reckless boating, and illegal dumping – often stemming from seemingly harmless actions. Many Spring Breakers assume that interacting with marine life, feeding birds, or leaving trash behind is no big deal, but law enforcement takes these offenses seriously. What starts as an innocent mistake can result in hefty fines, a permanent criminal record, or even jail time.
Real-World Examples: Tourists Arrested for Harassing a Manatee
Florida is home to some of the most protected marine life in the country, including manatees, sea turtles, and dolphins. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) actively patrols waterways to enforce strict wildlife protection laws, ensuring the safety of both animals and the public.
Manatees are a protected species under both Florida and federal law. Boaters and beachgoers should pay close attention to no-wake zones, signage, and other regulations designed to prevent harm to these gentle marine mammals. If you encounter manatees while on the water, it is illegal to touch, chase, or otherwise disturb them.
Last year, several individuals were arrested after a viral video surfaced showing them attempting to interact with manatees in a manner that violated wildlife protection laws. The incident caught the attention of FWC officers, who investigated and pursued charges under the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act.
Violating manatee protection laws can lead to serious legal consequences, including misdemeanor charges, hefty fines, and potential jail time. In some cases, intentional harassment or harm can result in federal charges under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, carrying even steeper penalties.
The takeaway? Florida’s wildlife laws are strictly enforced. A seemingly harmless interaction – like trying to take a selfie or touch marine animals – can lead to serious criminal charges. If you see wildlife, observe from a distance and avoid physical contact to protect both yourself and Florida’s fragile ecosystem.
Florida Takes Wildlife Protection Seriously
Before you dive into Florida’s waters, here’s what you need to know about wildlife harassment laws, common Spring Break violations, and how to avoid legal trouble.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) actively patrols the state’s waterways, beaches, and parks to enforce wildlife protection laws. Many tourists and Spring Breakers assume these rules are just suggestions, but Florida treats wildlife offenses just as seriously as other crimes.
What Counts as Harassing Wildlife in Florida?
Under Florida law, “harassment” of wildlife includes any act that disrupts an animal’s natural behavior. This means you can be charged even if you didn’t intend to harm the animal. Some of the most common Spring Break wildlife violations include:
- Touching, feeding, or disturbing marine animals: This includes manatees, sea turtles, dolphins, and seabirds.
- Ignoring no-wake zones and speeding through manatee habitats: Manatee injuries from boat propellers are a serious issue in Florida, leading to strict speed restrictions.
- Jumping on or riding marine animals: Yes, it has happened, and yes, people have been arrested for it.
- Littering in the ocean or on the beach: Illegally dumping trash or leaving plastic waste behind is a criminal offense.
- Chasing, trapping, or capturing wildlife: Even trying to take a “cool photo” by grabbing an animal can be illegal.
If law enforcement sees you engaging in any of these activities, you could be stopped, fined, or arrested on the spot.
The Consequences of Wildlife Violations in Florida
Harassing wildlife isn’t just a slap-on-the-wrist offense – Florida enforces these laws strictly. Potential penalties include:
- Misdemeanor or Felony Charges: Depending on the severity, you could face a second-degree misdemeanor (up to 60 days in jail) or a felony (up to five years in prison).
- Fines of $500 to $5,000+: The more severe the offense, the steeper the fine.
- Jail Time: Wildlife harassment can result in anywhere from a few days to several years behind bars.
- Permanent Criminal Record: Having a wildlife violation on your record can impact future travel, job opportunities, and background checks.
Littering: Another Crime That Can Land You in Jail
Many Spring Breakers don’t think twice about tossing an empty can or plastic cup overboard, but littering on the water is a crime in Florida. Last year, a group of boaters at Boca Bash in Boca Raton were caught on camera dumping beer cans and garbage into the ocean. The footage quickly went viral, and law enforcement identified and arrested the individuals responsible. They found themselves facing criminal charges, highlighting how illegal dumping in Florida waters can lead to serious legal consequences.
If you’re heading out on the water for Spring Break, make sure you have a plan for your trash – because Florida’s law enforcement is watching.
How to Stay Out of Legal Trouble This Spring Break
If you’re visiting Florida for Spring Break, avoid unnecessary legal trouble by following these simple rules:
- Look, but don’t touch: Take pictures of wildlife, but never interact with or feed them.
- Follow no-wake zones and speed limits: They’re there for a reason – manatee safety.
- Keep your trash on the boat: Make a plan for disposing of waste properly.
- Respect Florida’s laws: Even if something seems harmless, if it affects wildlife, it could be illegal.
What to Do If You’re Arrested for a Wildlife Violation
If you or someone you know is arrested for harassing wildlife, reckless boating, or littering, take these steps immediately:
- Do not argue with law enforcement: Stay calm and respectful.
- Do not admit guilt: Anything you say can be used against you.
- Request legal representation: Call a criminal defense attorney who handles wildlife violations.
- Document what happened: If you were falsely accused or unaware of the law, a lawyer may be able to challenge the charges.
Why You Need an Attorney for a Wildlife Charge
Facing charges for wildlife violations, reckless boating, or illegal dumping can be more serious than most Spring Breakers expect. BD Law, led by attorney Brandon Dinetz, provides dedicated legal defense for tourists, boaters, and visitors caught in unexpected legal trouble while enjoying Florida’s waters.
As a former prosecutor, Brandon knows how these cases are built – and more importantly, how to fight them. Many wildlife-related arrests rely on video footage, witness statements, or unclear evidence, which can be challenged in court. In many cases, an experienced attorney can negotiate to reduce penalties or have charges dismissed entirely.
Beyond avoiding fines or jail time, protecting your record is critical. A conviction for even a minor misdemeanor can impact job prospects, background checks, and future travel. If you or someone you know has been arrested, don’t wait – seek legal guidance immediately to protect your future.
Final Thoughts: A Fun Spring Break Shouldn’t End in Jail
Florida’s wildlife laws exist to protect marine life and keep waterways safe. Ignoring them – even accidentally – can result in severe legal consequences. Enjoy Spring Break responsibly, respect the wildlife, and avoid a mistake that could follow you for years.
Charged with a Wildlife Violation? BD Law Can Help
If you or a loved one has been arrested for harassing wildlife, reckless boating, or illegal dumping, don’t risk your future over a simple mistake. BD Law is ready to fight for you. Contact us today for a free consultation and the strong defense you deserve. We serve clients in West Palm Beach, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Tampa, and across Florida.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult with an attorney for legal guidance on your specific case.