On March 15th, 2026, in Santa Rosa County, Florida, a beloved local alligator known as "Allie" met a tragic fate at the hands of individuals accused of illegally killing her. Allie was more than just an alligator; she was a symbol of the rich and unique wildlife that inhabits our region. Her untimely death has left a void in our community and highlights a grave issue that needs addressing---the protection of wildlife and the enforcement of existing laws aimed at safeguarding it amid all of the overdevelopment.

Despite the grievous nature of this act, there is a concern that the charges brought against those allegedly responsible may not reflect the severity of their actions. Current reports suggest potential oversights in ensuring that justice is served and that those responsible are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. Under Federal and Florida law, it is illegal to kill alligators, which are a protected keystone species, without proper authorization. Violators can face severe penalties; however, these laws must be applied rigorously and consistently to deter future acts of wildlife crime.

Unlawfully killing an alligator in Florida is a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.   Under Florida Statute 379.409 these strict penalties apply to intentionally capturing or killing an alligator without explicit state authorization.   There is a word for killing an alligator without explicit state authorization;  poaching.

There was no active, valid permit for Allie to be caught and killed.   She lived for well over a decade in a large pond on the side of Avalon Blvd., surrounded by a 6 foot tall chain linked fence that was locked at all times, beloved by the entire community. Though she was over 4 feet in length, she posed no threat to any person, pets, or property, and therefore did not meet the requirements to qualify as a nuisance alligator, so it is my opinion that the permit that was issued for her over two years ago should never have been issued in the first place.   

Though there was no permit for Allie to be caught and killed, the three men that are charged with allegedly killing her,  Kevin "dauber" Lacz, Richard Reder, and Jason Griffin, were only charged with misdemeanors.   

We call upon the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, local law enforcement, and the District Attorney's Office to conduct a thorough investigation and bring forth charges that truly reflect the heinous nature of this crime. By doing so, we not only seek justice for Allie but also reinforce the importance of respecting and preserving our natural ecosystem. This case must serve as a precedent to demonstrate that such illegal acts will not be tolerated in our community.

Let us send a clear message that we stand united in the protection of our wildlife. Your signature can help ensure that Allie's tragic demise is met with appropriate justice and that future generations can appreciate the majestic creatures that share our planet. Please sign this petition to make a difference in holding those responsible accountable and advocating for stronger wildlife protection measures in Florida.

#poaching #powerdrill #wildlife #wildlifeprotection #alligator #alligatorconservation #floridawildlife #conservationlaws  #kevinlacz #kevindauberlacz #richardreder #jasongriffin