Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier on Tuesday announced his intent to push for harsher penalties on those who poach wildlife. The legislation Uthmeier is proposing would “create a new standalone felony offense of aggravated illegal taking of wildlife and to significantly enhance penalties when poachers discharge firearms near people, occupied structures, or critical infrastructure”.
The activities targeted in this proposal include hunting, capturing, killing, or trafficking Florida’s fish and wildlife outside the parameters of current regulations. In the past, the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has reported trafficking of alligators, black bears, turtles, reef fish, sharks, and others.
New penalties would apply to those found to have discharged a firearm near people or residential areas while in the activity of poaching. Offenders would lose all licenses and permits from FWC. They would also be made to forfeit the firearm involved, as well as any other vehicle or vessel used in the offense. A new third-degree felony would also be established for poaching while committing trespass.
Uthmeier’s proposal was supported by Roger Young, the executive director for the FWC. “Today’s announcement of increased penalties for poaching ensures our officers have the resources they need to hold criminals accountable,” Young said. “These tougher penalties [reinforce] Florida’s commitment to conserving our wildlife and natural resources for generations to come.”
The Florida legislature would have the opportunity to consider Uthmeier’s proposal during the 2027 legislative session, which spans from March 2 to April 30 next year. In 2021 the legislature passed another round of enhanced penalties for wildlife poaching under the Racketeer Influence and Corrupt Organization (RICO) Act.
“Poachers who unlawfully discharge firearms near Florida homes are not just stealing our wildlife but endangering families and neighborhoods,” Uthmeier said. “This legislation would give prosecutors a powerful new tool to hold these reckless criminals accountable with second-degree felony charges, permanent loss of hunting privileges, and forfeiture of their weapons. Floridians deserve to feel safe in their communities, and our natural resources must be protected for future generations.”
