Let Goliath go free!| Turtle tortured then slaughtered

From the Pensacola News Journal:
http://www.pnj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080807/...

There doesn't seem to be much that can be done officially to force the release of a 100-pound snapping turtle fished from the Escambia River last week.

We can only hope public pressure will lead to its release by the Jay family that caught and is holding it.

It is sad that this large, old turtle likely more than 15 years old, can be valued by some mainly for its status as trophy to be hung on a wall. It is a mark of how alienated from nature our society is that people find value in destroying, not protecting, such a creature.

As for reputed plans by the family to create a "sanctuary" for the animal, it had everything it needed in the river it was plucked from.

The animal's status with the State of Florida, a 'Species of Special Concern' affords it only limited protection. An individual can only possess one, and it can't be sold.

But that status is based on the fact snapping turtles are in danger of becoming a threatened species, in part due to the risk of human exploitation.

However, state officials have issued a warning letter for violation of a caging requirement, and advised the Phillips family to either correct the problem or return the turtle, alive, to the river.

We urge the Phillips family to comply and set the turtle free.

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HOW HORRIBLE!
The Phillips family even named the poor turtle! I live in this area & this is a disgrace. I am disgusted at the treatment of animals (both domesticated & wildlife) that takes place here. This entire family (which will probably reproduce) is a stain on what it means to be human.

2 comments made to the editor of the PNJ worth posting...

"PNJ failed to mention several items:
Another local newspaper was contacted first about this story and refused to publish it due to the possible exploitation. It appeared the family was interested in garnering publicity and funds and was in fact using public sympathy for the turtle to try to get money.
Secondly, Phillips has a record for wildlife violations as recent as May for possession of a migratory bird or "parts" of a migratory bird and going back for years to hunting at night with a light for turkey and deer. He also has a list of arrests several pages long for numerous crimes, including domestic violence and child abuse.
Finally, the News Journal did a great disservice by participating in the exploitation of this animal while photographing the turtle at the home of the family. Photographers and reporters stood by and watched as the animal was abused with sticks for the purpose of "great photos."
Great job PNJ. You could probably get a "great shot" of them eating a Bald Eagle..."

"I am almost at a loss for words. I did call and cancel my subscription to the PNJ, as I hold them partially responsable for Goliath's fate. Others may wish to do the same. The online photo's were disgusting!
Florida Fish and Wildfile should be ashamed, as should we all. Once again humans prove their true nature. I totally agree with the posts regarding the family being in dire straits and yet have the money to spend $500. to have Goliath stuffed."