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Division of Law Enforcement Public Information Coordinator: Ashlee.Sklute@MyFWC.com
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News and Updates
FWC Law Enforcement remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting Florida’s marine life. In coordination with our partners, we’re proud to share a major step forward in the ongoing investigation at Gulf World Marine Park.
On June 4, four rescued rough-toothed dolphins—Doris, Kitana, Dagny, and Wren—were successfully transported from Panama City to Clearwater Marine Aquarium. CMA’s expert team ensured the dolphins were healthy and ready for the move. These dolphins, deemed nonreleasable by NOAA, will now receive continued care at CMA.
FWC is actively assisting our federal partners to ensure accountability and the highest level of care for these animals.
As National Safe Boating Week concludes, boating safety advocates in Florida and nationwide are urging boaters to stay vigilant as the summer season begins. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has released its 2024 Boating Accident Statistical Report, highlighting a concerning rise in both accidents and fatalities on Florida’s waterways.
With more than a million registered vessels, Florida is the “Boating Capital of the World.” However, high vessel numbers and a mild climate cause Florida to lead the nation in the number of boating fatalities each year. The vast size of Florida’s inland, coastal and offshore patrol areas, combined with a significant population of avid and diverse boaters, presents a challenge for the FWC and local and federal maritime enforcement partners.
“Accidents and fatalities increased last year and that is a somber fact,” said Col. Brian Smith, Director of the FWC Division of Law Enforcement. “Our goal is for everyone on the water to return to the dock safely, with great memories and no tragedies. I’m proud of the tireless work our officers and staff do to promote boating safety throughout the year, and we want nothing more than to see these numbers come down in the next report.”
Key Findings from the 2024 Report:
- 685 reportable boating accidents occurred in Florida — 26 more than in 2023.
- 81 fatalities were reported — 22 more than the previous year.
- Collision with a fixed object was the leading accident type, accounting for 31% of incidents.
- Lack of boater education remains a major concern: 65% of operators involved in fatal accidents had no formal training.
Many of the 2024 fatalities could have been prevented with the use of life jackets. Today’s modern life jackets are designed to be both effective and comfortable, with lightweight, inflatable options that make wearing them easier than ever. Find information about selecting the right life jacket.
“Accidents happen quickly and without warning. You may not have time to grab your life jacket”, said Lt. Nicholas Korade, FWC Boating and Waterways Section. “The message is simple: Life jackets save lives.”
FWC continues to encourage all boaters, regardless of age or experience, to complete a certified boating safety course. In 2024, the FWC issued over 74,000 Boating Safety Education ID cards, an increase of roughly 1,000 from the previous year.
“We want every boater to understand the responsibility they take on when they go out on the water,” said Lt. Korade. “A boating safety course is one of the best ways to prepare and protect yourself and others.”
The 2024 Boating Accident Statistical Report is compiled by the Boating and Waterways Section of the FWC’s Division of Law Enforcement. Most of the data contained in this report is gathered from boating accident investigation reports submitted by FWC officers and marine law enforcement partners.
At the end of each calendar year, boating accident data is compiled and assembled into Florida’s annual report. The FWC’s Boating and Waterways Section analyzes this information and uses it to formulate proactive plans aimed at reducing the number of boating accidents and their related injuries, fatalities and property damage. This information is also reported to the USCG’s Boating Safety Division in Washington, D.C., to be included in the national database consisting of data from all U.S. states and territories.
The FWC’s Boating Accident Statistical Report is compiled from data submitted by FWC officers and other marine law enforcement agencies across the state. The report includes only reportable accidents, which meet at least one of the following criteria:
- A person dies or disappears under circumstances suggesting injury or death.
- A person requires medical treatment beyond basic first aid.
- Property damage totals $2,000 or more.
- A vessel is completely lost.
Florida had 1,030,053 registered vessels in 2024, slightly fewer than in 2023, but the number of nonregistered, active-use vessels is estimated to be close to 1 million — a figure that continues to grow. The resulting congestion on Florida’s waterways further underscores the need for education, awareness and responsible boating practices.
Resources
- Get a copy of the 2024 Boating Accident Statistical Report.
- Watch FWC Division of Law Enforcement Chief of Staff Dustin Bonds’ provide advice about safe boating at the NSBW Alabama, Florida and Georgia Joint Press Conference in Eufaula, Ala.
- Find safe boating tips.
At its May Commission meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) presented Assistant State Attorney Benjamin Laing of the 6th Judicial Court, serving Pasco and Pinellas counties, with the 2025 FWC Division of Law Enforcement Prosecutor of the Year award.
The Prosecutor of the Year is selected by FWC officers and investigators who work closely with prosecutors in the field on case preparation, charge determination, issuing subpoenas, reviewing arrest and search warrants, and pursuing justice in wildlife crime cases. Laing was nominated by FWC officers in the Southwest Region for his extensive legal expertise and dedication, which contributed to the successful prosecution of several major cases, including a high-profile shorebird poaching incident.
Further supporting wildlife conservation in Florida, Laing established a system in which violators donate their financial penalties to the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida instead of to the counties where the violations occurred. This innovative idea generated approximately $50,000 last year to support these efforts.
In addition to conserving Florida’s wildlife, he is committed to ensuring that boating under the influence and other vessel-related cases are prosecuted effectively by providing officers with guidance on case strategy and maintaining strong communication throughout legal proceedings.
“Benjamin’s invaluable partnership with the FWC and strategic approach has led to stronger legal actions against those who harm protected species, including manatees, gopher tortoises and migratory birds,” said Col. Brian Smith, Director of the FWC Division of Law Enforcement. “He is a true advocate for wildlife justice and doesn’t hesitate to take on complex cases. He has earned the trust and respect of all the officers he has worked with through his collaboration and passion for conservation, even joining officers in the field during warrant services. It is an honor to present him with this year’s Prosecutor of the Year award.”
Laing completed his undergraduate studies at Florida State University and earned his law degree from Stetson University College of Law in 2023. Since then, he has worked with the state attorney’s office. In his free time, he enjoys fishing and hunting.
On May 6 at approximately 4:02 p.m., the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded to a reported alligator incident near the mouth of Tiger Creek into Lake Kissimmee in Polk County.
Preliminary information indicates that a woman was canoeing with her husband when they encountered an alligator, causing both individuals to fall into the water. An 11-foot, 4-inch alligator bit the woman and pulled her underwater. The woman, Cynthia Diekema (DOB 04/12/1964) of Davenport, was later found deceased and recovered from the water.
FWC officers, along with local emergency personnel including the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, were on the scene. A contracted nuisance alligator trapper also arrived, removed the alligator from the water, and dispatched it. FWC officers and the trapper will remain in the area to ensure public safety.
The incident remains under investigation, and no additional details are available at this time. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
The FWC extends its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the victim during this difficult time.
See May 7 press conference about this incident.
Serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida. The FWC places the highest priority on public safety and administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP). SNAP uses contracted nuisance alligator trappers throughout the state to remove alligators believed to pose a threat to people, pets or property. People with concerns about an alligator should call FWC’s toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286), and we will dispatch a contracted nuisance alligator trapper to resolve the situation.
The FWC works to keep Floridians and visitors informed and recommends the following precautionary measures near alligators, including in or near the water, to reduce the chances of conflicts with alligators:
- Keep a safe distance if you see an alligator. If someone is concerned about an alligator, they should call FWC’s toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286), and we will dispatch a contracted nuisance alligator trapper to resolve the situation.
- Keep pets on a leash and away from the water’s edge. Pets often resemble alligators’ natural prey.
- Swim only in designated swimming areas during daylight hours and without your pet. Alligators are most active between dusk and dawn.
- Never feed an alligator. It’s illegal and dangerous. When fed, alligators can lose their natural wariness and instead learn to associate people with the availability of food. This can lead to an alligator becoming a nuisance and needing to be removed from the wild.
Learn more about co-existing with alligators.
A fatal bear attack occurred Monday, May 5, in the early morning hours in the area of State Road 29 and U.S. 41, just south of Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area, near Jerome in Collier County.
For more information about the incident:
On April 27, 2025, at approximately 8:45 p.m., the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded to a serious boating accident near Memorial Causeway in Clearwater, Pinellas County.
Preliminary information indicates that a 37-foot recreational vessel, with approximately six persons aboard, collided with the stern of a 40-foot commercial passenger vessel, carrying 44 individuals. The collision resulted in multiple injuries and one fatality.
Following the collision, the recreational vessel departed the scene and traveled to Belleair Boat Ramp. FWC personnel, with assistance from the Clearwater Police Department, Clearwater Fire Department, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Coast Guard, responded swiftly to render aid, secure the scene, and initiate a multi-location investigation. Injured individuals were triaged at Seminole Boat Ramp and transported to various local hospitals for treatment. No additional fatalities have been reported at this time. Both vessels involved have been secured as evidence.
FWC Critical Incident personnel will continue canvassing the area for surveillance footage and potential witnesses. Follow-up interviews with passengers and witnesses are planned as part of the ongoing investigation. Additionally, the United States Coast Guard is conducting a concurrent investigation into the commercial passenger vessel.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission extends our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim, as well as to all those injured and impacted by this tragic incident.
This is an active and ongoing investigation. Further details will be released as they become available.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) proudly recognizes Lieutenant Nick Korade of the Boating and Waterways Section for graduating with Class 59 of the Florida Leadership Academy. Lt. Korade is one of 45 first-line supervisors representing 34 criminal justice agencies across the state to complete this distinguished program.
The Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute (FCJEI) announced the graduation, highlighting the participants' commitment to enhancing leadership capabilities within their organizations. Over four intensive, week-long sessions held at the FDLE Pensacola Regional Operations Center, Lt. Korade and his peers developed skills essential for meeting the evolving needs of their agencies and the communities they serve.
The Florida Leadership Academy is designed to prepare first-line supervisors to lead with integrity, professionalism, and efficiency. The curriculum emphasizes key components of effective leadership and reinforces the character expected of Florida’s criminal justice professionals.
Established in 1990 by the Florida Legislature, FCJEI is housed within the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and affiliated with the State University System. The institute provides innovative training and educational programs for criminal justice personnel across Florida.
FWC congratulates Lt. Korade on this significant achievement and his continued commitment to excellence in service and leadership.
On March 3, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Division of Law Enforcement became the first agency in the U.S. to receive accreditation from the North American Wildlife Law Enforcement Accreditation Program.
Assessors conducted their formal review Jan. 14-15, 2025, which included opportunities to conduct interviews and observations at a static display featuring FWC law enforcement officers and agency issued equipment. NAWLEA develops and establishes standards for conservation law enforcement professionalism and effectiveness. By meeting NAWLEA’s approximately 70 rigorous standards and earning accreditation, the FWC Division of Law Enforcement will enhance its commitment to the highest standards of service in achieving its mission to conserve the state’s fish and wildlife resources and protect the people of Florida.
"This milestone is a great honor that reflects the professional excellence of our accreditation team and the entire FWC Division of Law Enforcement," said Col. Brian Smith, Director of the FWC Division of Law Enforcement. "Meeting the standards and goals set by NAWLEA enhances our wildlife conservation efforts and strengthens the profession as a whole."
Examples of the 70 NAWLEA standards and goals that FWC has met include:
- Increasing the effectiveness and efficiency of natural resource law enforcement agencies in the delivery of services.
- Promoting cooperation and coordination among all components in the criminal justice system and the communities served.
- Ensuring appropriate training for natural resource law enforcement personnel.
- Promoting public confidence in natural resource law enforcement.
- Elevating the professionalism of law enforcement agencies involved in the NAWLEA process.
The FWC is the first U.S. agency to receive accreditation from the North American Wildlife Law Enforcement Accreditation Program
Left to Right: Colonel Bobby Cales (West Virginia Division of Natural Resources); Colonel Chisolm Frampton (South Carolina Department of Natural Resources); Colonel Brian G. Smith (FWC-Florida); Colonel John Cobb (Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources); Accreditation Manager Elizabeth Kamerick (FWC-Florida); Captain Dana Russell (FWC-Florida) and Lt. Richard Doricchi (FWC-Florida).
The North American Wildlife Law Enforcement Accreditation program plays a vital role in advancing the natural resources law enforcement profession. By establishing and maintaining rigorous standards, NAWLEA ensures that agencies across North America adhere to best practices, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability. For more information about NAWLEA, visit NAWLEA.org/Projects.
Release Date: March 13, 2025
Contact: Communications
Phone: 850-245-0150
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.— Today, Attorney General James Uthmeier and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announced prison sentences for four criminals connected to a string of state park burglaries. Attorney General Uthmeier’s Office of Statewide Prosecution charged Chandler Parrish Ellison, Alyssa Michelle Brewer, Aaron Tyler Higgins, and Kayly Dawn Burns with racketeering, conspiracy to commit racketeering, armed burglary, and other offenses related to burglarizing ranger stations in state parks from Central Florida and into South Georgia. Each defendant plead guilty.
“Thanks to the cooperative work of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and our Statewide Prosecutors, four individuals who burglarized state parks will serve a collective 38 years behind bars,” said James Uthmeier. “Florida parks showcase and preserve the natural beauty of this state, and I thank Assistant Statewide Prosecutor Robert Miller and FWC for pursuing justice and protecting our parks.”
“The collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies have been instrumental in bringing these individuals to justice and mitigating further threats to public property and visitor safety within state parks,” said FWC Executive Director Roger Young. “The FWC and the Florida Attorney General’s Office of Statewide Prosecution remain committed to upholding the integrity of Florida’s natural resources and ensuring the safety and security of park visitors and personnel.”
The investigation began in the fall of 2022 after ranger stations at numerous state parks in North Florida were burglarized for money, equipment, and merchandise. In addition to the burglaries, many state parks suffered vandalism and theft of money from the honor boxes near the entrances to various parks where visitors deposited their daily fees.
On Sept. 27, 2024, Chandler Ellison pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including racketeering, conspiracy to commit racketeering, unlawful use of a two-way communications device, and armed burglary. Under the terms of the plea, Ellison will serve 12 years in prison. On Dec. 20, 2024, Alyssa Brewer pleaded guilty to the same charges and was sentenced to eight years in prison. On Feb. 13, 2025, Kayly Burns pleaded guilty to the same charges and was sentenced to seven years in prison. On March 13, 2025, Aaron Higgins pleaded guilty to the same charges and was sentenced to 11 years.
The public can report state park violations to the FWC by calling the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC or submitting a tip online at MyFWC.com/WildlifeAlert.
On March 8, during a joint patrol as part of Operation Vigilant Sentry, near Whale Harbor Bridge in Monroe County, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the Florida Highway Patrol observed two divers in the water with spearguns and without a visible dive flag.
As officers approached, they spotted a large tarpon struggling in the water nearby. One diver complied with the officers' commands to stop for a resource inspection, while the other ignored them and attempted to swim away. When officers tried to apprehend the fleeing diver, the initially cooperative diver attempted to escape on foot. FWC officers pursued the diver in the water, while FHP officers pursued the diver on land.
FWC officers successfully apprehended the diver in the water, identified as Yosbel Salazar Hernandes (DOB 6/30/84). Unable to locate any records for Hernandes, officers contacted Customs and Border Protection, who took him into custody. The second suspect remains unidentified and is still at large. He was last seen leaving Wahoo’s Seafood Bar and Grill Restaurant in Islamorada heading southbound in a brown Ford F-150 truck.
At the scene, officers recovered two speared tarpon and an undersize speared snook. A warrant has been issued for the violations.
Anyone with information regarding the unidentified suspect is encouraged to call the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) or submit a tip at MyFWC.com/WildlifeAlert.
Media contacts:
- Arielle Callender, Arielle.Callender@MyFWC.com
- Ashlee Sklute, Ashlee.Sklute@MyFWC.com
On Feb. 26, 2025, following a yearlong investigation, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officers arrested Jorge L. Alfonso (DOB 05/26/1987) of Homestead on charges related to the illegal sale and trade of species protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Poachers use elaborate traps, often suspended in trees or hidden in tall grasses, to capture these birds, which are then illegally sold — sometimes to unsuspecting buyers. These actions violate federal law, which protects migratory birds from unlawful capture, trade and harm.
“We are proud of our officers' dedication in bringing this investigation to completion and shutting down another operation in the illegal bird trade,” said FWC Maj. Alberto Maza, South B Regional Commander. “We are especially grateful that all the birds were safely released back into their natural habitat. It’s important for the public to know that possessing a migratory songbird is illegal. If you see or have knowledge of someone trapping or selling these birds, please report it.”
In total, 57 migratory birds — including painted and indigo buntings, rose-breasted grosbeaks and cardinals — were rescued and released back into the wild. Officers also seized an aviary and 11 cages.
The public can report suspected wildlife violations by calling FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922) or visiting MyFWC.com/WildlifeAlert.
See photos related to this case.
See the video about this case.
On Feb. 11, the State Attorney’s Office sentenced Abilio Aiken Medina, 32, of Davenport, for multiple charges, including a felony for animal cruelty, following his 2023 arrest by FWC captive wildlife investigators.
On Nov. 22, 2023, FWC Investigators responded to a complaint from the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office regarding reptiles being kept in unsanitary conditions. During the inspection, investigators discovered a room with multiple reptile enclosures containing dirty or no water and, in some cases, malnourished or deceased animals.
Among the neglected animals found:
- A deceased, dehydrated ball python in its own excrement.
- Several bearded dragons, boa constrictors, pythons and other reptiles with contaminated or no water.
- A malnourished spiny-tailed iguana and two tortoises without water.
- A rose-haired tarantula with no water.
All animals were released to the FWC and placed in a permitted rescue facility and charges were referred to the State Attorney’s Office.
“I have no doubt that justice for these animals was achieved thanks to our investigators' diligence,” said Maj. John Wilke, FWC Captive Wildlife Section Leader. “We appreciate the State Attorney’s Office for recognizing the importance of responsible captive wildlife ownership.”
The FWC takes wildlife violations very seriously and encourages the public to report them by calling the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922) or submitting a tip online at MyFWC.com/WildlifeAlert.
FWC Officer George Reynaud responded to reports of a person at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park throwing rocks at a federally protected great white heron. The investigation revealed the individual was fishing and became angry when the bird ate his bait. In a cruel act, he threw rocks at the heron, severely injuring it. The subject admitted to the crime and was arrested and taken to jail. The injured heron is in the care of Pelican Harbor Seabird Station, where experts are working to rehabilitate it. Learn more and report fish, wildlife and boating violations at MyFWC.com/WildlifeAlert.
See the video about this case.
On Feb. 27, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officers, assisted by Lantana and Malapan police officers, worked to rescue and release a 14-foot smalltooth sawfish trapped in a net secured to a bridge. Acting quickly, they carefully freed the sawfish, collected a sample for Fish and Wildlife Research biologists and released the animal back into the water unharmed – all within minutes. There is no evidence to suggest this sawfish exhibited abnormal (spinning) behavior as was seen in the Keys last year.
The smalltooth sawfish population has been reduced to a small section of Florida’s southern coast and has been federally listed as endangered; their core range in the U.S. used to extend from North Carolina to Texas.
“Every specimen of this endangered species is vital to its genetic diversity, said Maj. Mike Davis, South A Regional Commander. “I am grateful our officers were able to return this one to its habitat safely.”
Please report sawfish sightings by email or telephone:
- Sawfish@MyFWC.com
- 844-472-9347(1-844-4SAWFISH)
For More Information
- See the sawfish rescue and release video.
- Read the news alert.
- Learn more about sawfish.
- Visit Wildlife Alert to learn how to report wildlife in distress or wildlife, fishing and boating violations.
While patrolling I-75 in Big Cypress, FWC Officer Chase Pruett observed an adult and two youths exiting a hole in a fence, carrying fishing rods and a stringer loaded with various bass species.
Upon conducting a resource inspection, Officer Pruett discovered the group possessed 20 Florida bass—exceeding the legal bag limit by five, including two fish over the 16-inch size limit. Additionally, they had 25 butterfly peacock bass, surpassing the bag limit by 19.
The adult was issued a notice to appear for the violations. FWC reminds anglers to familiarize themselves with fishing regulations to ensure the sustainability of the resource.
See photos on Flickr.
