Boaters Filmed Dumping Trash Into the Ocean off the Florida Coast Have People Outraged

The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers to this website may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website.

With climate change running off the rails and severe pollution all across the world, the future of the planet looks very bleak. Those of us who are motivated to work for a better future are doing everything possible to combat our growing environmental devastation in a desperate race against time. Unfortunately, there are also people out there who'd rather throw more gasoline onto the flame.

In a move so shockingly callous that it has to be seen to be believed, a group of young boaters were filmed dumping trash into the ocean off the coast of South Florida on April 28. We're not just talking about a spare piece of trash or two, either; these people were literally treating the ocean like their personal garbage dump.

In a video broadcasted on @abcworldnews last night, a group of about six boaters were caught in the act dumping two full garbage cans' worth of trash into the waters off the coast of Boca Raton , Florida. Despicable. Guess they were too busy partying to punch a baby sea turtle or blow up a recycling plant while they were at it. Seriously, where's Captain Planet when you need him?

Related: People Accused of Harassing a Pod of Dolphins in Hawaii Have Everyone Enraged

Fortunately (because this story desperately needs a "bright" side), it looks like justice will come swiftly for these jerks. According to NBC affiliate WPTV in West Palm Beach, Florida Fish and Wildlife officials claim that they've identified several of the boaters involved , who were filmed littering the ocean waters during "Boca Bash" this Sunday. The FWC is currently working with the state attorney's office on "appropriate charges," but for an infarction this severe, these careless boaters could be looking at some seriously stiff penalties.

Can't Do the Time, Don't Do the Crime

The Sunshine State keeps litterbugs in check with "litter laws," and while these laws are obviously not always enforced, there's no way that a violation this severe and this blatant will fly under the radar. According to Florida's litter laws , dumping litter in an amount under 15 pounds is a noncriminal offense that incurs a $150. Two garbage cans' worth of trash could easily push these boaters over the 15 pound mark, at which point the act becomes a first-degree misdemeanor.

If convicted, the violators could face up to a year in prison and a fine of up to $1,000. Additionally, they may also be forced to pick up litter or perform other community service "commensurate with the offense committed." If you can't do the time (or even pick up after yourself), don't do the crime.

Online, people were outraged by the blatant (and potentially criminal) brain-dead disregard these boaters displayed.

"I know some backwards-*** people, but most have more respect than this. That behavior is disturbing and a red flag for their employers and friends," remarked @y2onexcess.

"Littering is bad enough in urban cities but like c'mon dude WHY litter in nature? Every time I've been to a national park and see litter it enrages me," said @buttermayne.

"Why??? Like just go enjoy the day. Who purposely brings 2 giant trash cans?" exclaimed @ms.jay.3.

I'm not normally a very punitive person, but speaking for myself, I hope they throw the book at these offenders. There's no excuse for an act of littering this blatant. It's this kind of callous behavior that's killing our planet, and it deserves a no-tolerance policy, regardless of whoever's doing it.

For more WanderWisdom updates, be sure to follow us on Google News !

Have you had a funny, interesting, or just highly memorable experience while traveling? We'd love for you to submit a video of your travels for a chance to be featured on WanderWisdom and our social channels! Click here to upload your clip and share your adventures with the world.