$20K reward offered for info on residents seen harassing stranded dolphin on Brazoria County beach

Beachgoers were seen on video attempting to push the animal back into the water and ride it, according to the Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network. The animal died from drowning before rescuers could arrive, according to the NOAA. 

Anyone with any information on the beachgoers present in photographs and video from the incident is encouraged to contact the NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement Hotline at (800) 853-1964. Tips may be left anonymously, but contact info must be included for those who wish to receive reward money. 

A reward of up to $20,000 is being offered for information leading to successful identification; prosecution of the individuals responsible, or arrest, conviction, or civil penalty assessment. 

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Marine mammals are federally protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, and harming, killing or feeding them is punishable by law. Violations can result in up to $100,000 in fines or one year in jail per violation, per the NOAA. 

Beachgoers should never push a stranded animal back out to sea, as stranded animals are typically sick or injured and need to be treated, per the NOAA.

The agency recommends the following do’s and don’t’s for stranded marine mammals.

Do not:

• If the animal returns to the water on its own, don’t attempt to swim with it.
• If the animal is alive, don’t cover or obstruct the blowhole. Try to keep sand and water away from the blowhole.
• Don’t collect any parts (tissues, teeth, bones, or gear, etc.) from dead animals. They are still covered by the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

Do:

• Do keep crowds away and noise levels down to avoid causing further stress to the animal.
• Do report all dead marine mammals, even if they are decomposed.
• Do keep pets away from the live or dead marine mammal.
• Do put human safety above animal safety. If conditions are dangerous, do not attempt to approach the animal.
• Do stay with the animal until rescuers arrive, but use caution. Marine mammals can be dangerous and/or carry disease. Keep a safe distance from the head and tail. Also, minimize contact with the animal (use gloves if necessary) and avoid inhaling the animal’s expired air.
• If the animal is alive, do keep its skin moist and cool by splashing water over its body. Use wet towels to help keep the skin moist and prevent sunburn.

rebecca.hennes@chron.com