Off the Hook: Von Miller Avoids Legal Repercussions in Shark Incident; Boat Owner Gets Two Counts
OutdoorHub Reporters 04.23.19
Last year, Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller was pictured holding a 9-and-a-half foot hammerhead shark during a fishing trip off the coast of Miami, Florida. The photos led to an eventual investigation to confirm things were on the up-and-up, and according to records obtained by USA TODAY Sports, Miller will avoid any legal repercussions.
The owner and operator of the boat Miller was fishing on that day, however, were reportedly charged with fishing for sharks without the proper permit and for failure to release a shark in a favorable manner for the shark’s survival.
The incident caught fire once PETA got involved and vowed to “ensure Miller is held accountable if killing this animal was, as suspected, illegal.” Miller, though, defended himself from social media tirade saying “we followed the rules.”
The hammerhead catch sparked an investigation by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which has the species listed as “prohibited.” While catching hammerhead sharks isn’t illegal, what happens after the catch can potentially land you in hot water.
According to the FWC’s website, taking photos and determining length of the species is allowed, but strictly during the active release process. There should be no delay whatsoever.
Records issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) show the owner and operator of the boat will face the previously mentioned charges above under the Magnuson-Stevens Act, and a $2,000 notice of violation and assessment was also issued.
The boat’s owner and operator were not identified.
The NFL Pro Bowler, had he been convicted, was facing up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine, as determined by a judge.
