Man cited after keeping Loggerhead turtles in home aquarium

Florida Fish and Wildlife

JUPITER, Fla. (AP) – A Florida man has been cited for keeping two Loggerhead sea turtle hatchlings in an aquarium at his Jupiter home.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers said Tuesday that William Henry Jowett obtained the turtles from his backyard canal two months ago and put them in the aquarium for his daughter to see. Jowett, 53, said he planned on releasing the turtles, but changed his mind after growing attached to them.

Loggerhead sea turtles are listed as a threatened species. Penalties for the misdemeanor citation includes up to one year in prison and a potential fine of up to $1,000.

The turtles were confiscated, transferred to the Loggerhead Marine Life Sanctuary Center and later released.

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