Two Florida teens from Gulf Stream and Boynton Beach turned themselves into authorities after a viral video showed them dumping trash into the Atlantic Ocean from a boat. They are facing a felony pollution charge, which is a third-degree felony with a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $50,000 fine. The incident occurred at the Boca Inlet while the boaters were heading away from the annual Boca Bash event. The video showed the teens dumping a trash bin full of garbage into the ocean, including plastic water bottles, cans, food bags, and plastic cups.
The driver of the boat, a 15-year-old, was seen tossing garbage into the ocean and celebrating the act by holding the basket over his head. The video also captured the 16-year-old dumping trash into the ocean, with pollutants being scattered across the surface by rough waves and wind. After the incident, investigators from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission visited the home of the registered boat owner and spoke to witnesses on the boat who confirmed the suspects’ identities. The parents of one of the teens involved issued a statement apologizing for the incident and expressing their commitment to community service and ocean conservation efforts.
Chairman of the FWC, Rodney Barreto, stated that the “callous disregard for Florida’s environment will not be tolerated” and emphasized the importance of protecting the state’s natural resources. The organization condemned the actions of the teens and stressed the need for everyone to play a part in safeguarding the environment. Boca Bash organizers also expressed their disapproval of the behavior in the video, stating that it was not representative of the event and emphasizing the significance of taking care of Florida’s waters. They hoped that public repercussions would serve as a warning about the importance of preserving the environment.
The teens involved were in the process of obtaining legal counsel, and it was not immediately clear who would be representing them. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission charged them with causing pollution that could harm human health, welfare, animal, plant, aquatic life, or property. The incident sparked outrage among conservationists and environmental advocates, highlighting the need for greater awareness and respect for the environment. The case serves as a reminder of the consequences of irresponsible behavior towards natural resources and the importance of education and community engagement in fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
The teens’ actions were widely condemned on social media, with many expressing shock and disappointment at their behavior. The video of the incident circulated online, drawing attention to the issue of pollution and its impact on the marine environment. The FWC’s decision to charge the teens with a felony underscores the seriousness of the offense and sends a strong message about the consequences of polluting the ocean. The incident serves as a cautionary tale for others and highlights the need for stricter enforcement of environmental laws to protect Florida’s precious natural resources.
