Wildlife officials recently freed nearly 300 turtles seized on October 18th as a result of a historic turtle trafficking bust. They are now part of a long-term monitoring project by the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF).
The two suspects have been charged for poaching thousands of turtles native to our state and selling them illegally. Both Michael Boesenberg and Michael Clemons face multiple charges. Investigators say although they have arrested the primary suspects during this bust, they estimate anywhere from 10 to 15 more people are involved.
“This is an important reminder that Sanibel is part of global systems -- our Sanctuary Island is not immune to international wildlife trafficking,” said SCCF CEO Ryan Orgera. “I spent years working across the globe on the illicit trade in wild creatures, and am saddened to be thrust back into this global problem right here on Sanibel.”
Depending upon the species the poached turtles sold at $300 a piece and retailed $10,000 each in Asia. The sellers of the turtles received mostly cash but also traded the turtles for marijuana products.
Nine different species of turtles were found during the raid including Florida box turtles, Eastern box turtles, Striped mud turtles, and Chicken turtles. The turtles taken by FWC were estimated at $200,000 black-market value.
“The negative impacts to wild turtle population stretch beyond Lee County and Florida, the true extent of the theft and negative impacts this activity has caused may never be known,” Major Grant Burton, Floria Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said.
If you suspect anyone of turtle poaching, please call the Sanibel Police to report it at the non-emergency number, 239-472-3111.
