Man Found With Turtle Eggs and Drugs in Flagler County Arrest, Deputies Say

FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. — A 53-year-old man was taken into custody Sunday morning after deputies discovered turtle eggs and multiple drugs inside his van, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.

Turtle Eggs Spotted in Van

Deputies say Wesley Winters’ white van was parked outside a residence where he had previously been arrested for aggravated battery on a person over 65. As he stepped out of the vehicle, a deputy noticed several sand-covered orbs later identified as sea turtle eggs in a tray on the floorboard between his feet.

While deputies collected the eggs for evidence, they also found a marijuana bowl near the van.

Drugs Discovered During Search

When asked if he had narcotics on him, Winters reportedly responded, “not that I’m aware of,” before giving deputies consent to search his vehicle. Inside, officers located methamphetamine, fentanyl, marijuana, and an alprazolam pill.

Winters was immediately arrested on multiple drug possession charges.

Wildlife Charges Added

A Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officer arrived at the scene to investigate the illegal possession of the eggs. Winters told authorities the eggs had washed down the beach from two eroded nests and insisted he believed they were non-viable.

Despite his explanation, FWC charged Winters with five misdemeanor counts of knowingly possessing marine turtle eggs and five felony counts of taking, disturbing, or destroying turtle eggs.

Residents in coastal Florida are reminded that sea turtles are a protected species, and disturbing their nests or eggs carries serious penalties.

Do you believe state laws should be stricter to protect endangered wildlife, or do you think Winters’ explanation deserves consideration? Share your thoughts in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.