Some wildlife abuse caught on video may not have happened in Manatee, prosecutor says

At least some of the wildlife abuse caught on video, including the dragging of a shark by a speeding boat, may have occurred in Hillsborough County, as well as in Manatee County, according to State Attorney Ed Brodsky.

In a press release Monday, Brodsky said the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, which is investigating several incidents captured in videos and photographs and shared via social media, is also working with prosecutors in Hillsborough.

“During the course of the investigation, it was determined that jurisdiction for many of these incidents occurred in Hillsborough,” a release from Brodsky’s office states.

“These investigations are complex, and the FWC and both State Attorney’s Offices appreciate the public’s understanding and patience,” Brodsky’s announcement read. “We take these incidents seriously, and this investigation is moving forward.”

A video that surfaced on Instagram in late July depicting a shark tied up by its tail and being dragged behind a speeding boat, with the shot panning to three men looking on, sparked public outcry and the subsequent investigation. The man who posted the video, Capt. Mark Quartiano, said he was sent the video by two men from Manatee County.

Other videos and photographs depicting possible wildlife abuse also surfaced.

Last week, the FWC said they were wrapping up the investigation.

This story was originally published October 17, 2017 at 2:48 PM with the headline "Some wildlife abuse caught on video may not have happened in Manatee, prosecutor says."