Florida Keys Charter Captain Arrested for Animal Cruelty After Viral Shark Stabbing Incident
A man from the Florida Keys was arrested for animal cruelty after a video of him stabbing a bull shark went viral on Snapchat. Zane Garrett, a charter captain for Second Nature Charters, was identified as the person in the video. Despite being described as a captain on the website, Garrett did not have the required license according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
The incident took place at the Vandenberg Wreck site near Key West, where Garrett was seen stabbing the shark in the head multiple times. An anonymous tipster reported the video to the FWC, expressing concerns about the violent behavior displayed in the footage. Garrett claimed that he was trying to scare other sharks away from stealing fish by stabbing the shark.
After being confronted by FWC investigators, Garrett initially denied stabbing sharks but later admitted to his actions when shown the Snapchat video. He confessed to stabbing the shark out of revenge for stealing his fish, despite knowing that it wouldn't kill or deter the animal. Authorities condemned the act as cruel and unnecessary, causing undue suffering to the shark.
Garrett is currently in custody at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Key West jail on a $10,000 bond. His court date is scheduled for June 26. The FWC described the incident as egregious and emphasized the importance of treating marine life with respect and compassion.