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Torres, Javier – Harassing Endangered Florida Panthers, Florida 2018
Fort Myers, FL – In a disturbing case of wildlife crime, Javier Torres (42, Miami) has been sentenced to 14 days in prison for harassing two endangered Florida panther kittens. The incident occurred in February 2017, when Torres crawled into a den in the Big Cypress National Preserve in Collier County and unlawfully removed the two kittens.
According to court documents, Torres was caught on camera by his accomplice, Alfredo Lopez de Queralta (46, Miami), who filmed the entire incident. Lopez de Queralta later uploaded and shared segments of the video on YouTube.
The court also ordered Torres to pay a $1,000 fine, complete 200 hours of community service, and serve three years of probation. Lopez de Queralta received a lighter sentence, with 100 hours of community service and two years of probation.
Florida panthers are considered to be among the most critically endangered large mammal species in the world, with fewer than 200 individuals remaining. The species is protected under the Endangered Species Act, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to protecting these majestic creatures.
“Florida panthers are iconic species that are protected under the Endangered Species Act,” said Luis Santiago, Special Agent in Charge, Southeast Region, United States Fish and Wildlife Service. “This case demonstrates our commitment to protect these species so that they can be recovered and be a part of the landscape for future generations.”
The case was investigated by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and the National Park Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Simon Eth.
Torres and Lopez de Queralta previously pleaded guilty to the charges on September 12, 2018. The sentences handed down by the court are a reminder of the serious consequences of wildlife crime and the importance of protecting endangered species.
As the world continues to grapple with the threats facing endangered species, cases like this serve as a stark reminder of the need for increased conservation efforts and stricter penalties for those who engage in wildlife crime.
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Wildlife Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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