Flagler County, FL – A Florida man was arrested after deputies discovered illegal drugs and a stash of unhatched sea turtle eggs in his vehicle, all while he was violating a court-ordered no-contact directive, authorities said.
Deputy Spots Vehicle and Recognizes Occupant
According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO), deputies were patrolling North Ocean Shore Boulevard on Sunday morning when they noticed a white van parked outside a home. The van and its occupant, 53-year-old Wesley Winters, were recognized from a prior civil standby in August, during which Winters had been served a temporary no-contact order.
The order prohibited him from being within 500 feet of the victim’s home. When deputies approached, Winters was sleeping inside the van.
Discovery of Drugs and Turtle Eggs
Upon waking Winters, the deputy noticed sand-covered orbs, later identified as sea turtle eggs, and contacted the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
While investigating, deputies found a marijuana bowl on the ground near the vehicle and a THC vape pen in Winters’ pocket. A further search uncovered multiple illegal substances, including:
- Methamphetamine
- Fentanyl
- Marijuana
- Alprazolam pill
- Drug paraphernalia, including handmade pipes
Sea Turtle Eggs and FWC Investigation
When FWC officers arrived, Winters reportedly explained that he collected the eggs after seeing them wash ashore from eroded nests. He admitted the eggs were unhatched but claimed he believed they were non-viable.
Winters now faces misdemeanor and felony charges related to the possession and disturbance of protected marine turtle eggs, in addition to drug-related charges.
Charges and Legal Consequences
The charges against Winters include:
- Possession of fentanyl, methamphetamine, alprazolam, and marijuana
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Violation of a court-ordered no-contact directive
- Misdemeanor and felony charges for disturbance of protected marine turtle eggs
FCSO Sheriff Rick Staly referred to Winters as the “dumb criminal of the week”, highlighting that his arrest resulted from a combination of prior recognition and vigilant police work.
Community and Safety Takeaways
Authorities urge residents to report suspicious activity and remind the public that sea turtles are protected under federal and state law. Disturbing marine wildlife can result in serious legal consequences, in addition to criminal drug charges.
What are your thoughts on this unusual combination of wildlife crime and drug offenses? Share your opinions in the comments below.
