$20,000 Reward Offered for Decapitated Dolphin
A decapitated bottlenose dolphin, found on Lea-Hutaff Island in Pender County between April 16th and 18th, is the subject of a $20,000 reward offered by federal authorities. The dolphin’s head was intentionally removed, a violation of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. A necropsy revealed the presence of Brucella bacteria, posing a potential risk to humans. Information leading to those responsible can be submitted to NOAA’s Enforcement Hotline at 800-853-1964.