§ 3-5-303. Penalties for violation; resort to other remedies.

(a)

Florida Statutes section 370.021 provides that killing, molesting, or injuring a sea turtle shall be criminally prosecuted as follows:

(1)

Upon a first conviction, by imprisonment for a period of not more than ninety (90) days or by a fine of not less than one hundred dollars ($100.00) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500.00) or by both.

(2)

On a second or subsequent conviction within twelve (12) months, by imprisonment for not more than six (6) months or by a fine of not less than two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) or more than one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).

(3)

An additional fine of one hundred dollars ($100.00) shall be levied for each taking, harvesting, or possession of a sea turtle.

(b)

Violation of the provisions of this article or failure to comply with any of its requirements shall constitute a misdemeanor. Any person or entity who violates this article or fails to comply with any of its requirements shall, upon conviction thereof, be fined up to five hundred dollars ($500.00) or imprisoned for not more than sixty (60) days, or both, as provided by law. Each day such violation continues shall be considered a separate offense. Each sea turtle killed, injured, or molested shall constitute a separate violation. The county, in addition to the criminal sanctions contained herein, may take any other appropriate legal action including, but not limited to, injunctive action to enforce the provisions of this article.

(Ord. No. 98-041, § 7, 6-23-98)