GULF COAST, Fla. — Three people are accused of catching protected sea turtles and selling them to undercover officers during a yearslong investigation into an illegal fishing operation along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced charges against 10 people on Monday, Oct. 5, in Carrabelle.
The investigation, dubbed “Operation Stolen Waters,” targeted the alleged illegal sale of fish, shrimp and sea turtles.
AG James Uthmeier joins FWC Executive Director Young and Franklin County Sheriff Smith in Carrabelle to announce the arrest of 10 defendants for sea turtle poaching and illegal fishing operation https://t.co/h9hUpSjhab
— Attorney General James Uthmeier (@AGJamesUthmeier) October 5, 2026
Three defendants — Terry Carrington, Anthony Folsom and Jordan Neylan — allegedly sold five sea turtles, including three adults and two hatchlings, to undercover officers.
They face charges that include unlawful possession or sale of marine turtles, racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering.
“Here in Florida, do not touch our sea turtles or you are going to pay for it,” Uthmeier said. “Believe me, do not touch our sea turtles. We love them. We are going to protect them.”
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