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Defendant’s Scheme Brought to Light in 2018
Kevin Olbrych, a 48-year-old Spring Hill resident, has pleaded guilty to two counts of Lacey Act Trafficking. The plea was made in connection with Olbrych’s illicit turtle trafficking business, which was discovered in 2018 by Tampa police officers.
According to the plea agreement, officers from the Tampa Police Department executed a search warrant at Olbrych’s residence in 2018. During the search, multiple 300-gallon pools filled with turtles and other containers for the rearing of turtles were discovered. In total, Olbrych was found to be in possession of 120 turtles, which were not being housed properly and were being kept without the necessary licensure.
Law enforcement confiscated the turtles and turned them over to an individual qualified to rehabilitate them on behalf of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The investigation into Olbrych’s activities revealed that he had been selling turtles to a co-conspirator in Oregon, who would then sell them to buyers in China.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service took the lead on the investigation, with substantial assistance from the Tampa Police Department and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin Claire Favorit.
Kevin Olbrych now faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled. The full extent of Olbrych’s turtle trafficking operation remains unclear, but it is evident that his actions had far-reaching consequences for the environment and the animals involved.
The plea deal marks a significant victory for wildlife conservation efforts in Florida. It serves as a reminder of the importance of proper licensure and housing for exotic animals, and the severe consequences that can result from neglecting these responsibilities.
As the investigation continues, it is likely that more details will emerge about Olbrych’s turtle trafficking operation. In the meantime, the community can take comfort in knowing that justice is being served and that those responsible for wildlife crimes will be held accountable.
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Wildlife Trafficking|Environmental Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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