Florida Road Trip goes off the rails as tourists get busted with alligator strapped to car roof

(Anthony Buhl and March Wallin Chadwick, Image credit: Brevard County Sheriff’s Office)

What may have started as an unusual souvenir idea quickly turned into a felony case after two tourists were arrested in April for transporting a dead alligator strapped to the roof of their car across Central Florida.

Authorities say Anthony Buhl, 56, of New York City, and March Wallin Chadwick, 57, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, were spotted driving eastbound with the gator in plain view—first in Celebration, later near Harmony in St. Cloud, and ultimately along U.S. Highway 192 in Melbourne, where deputies conducted a traffic stop.

According to investigators, the men told deputies they had picked up the alligator after finding it as roadkill and intended to bring it to a taxidermist. Somewhere along the route, reality reportedly set in: possessing an alligator in Florida without proper authorization is illegal. In what might qualify as a last-ditch attempt at subtlety, the pair allegedly covered the carcass with a white sheet—though that did little to deter watchful residents or license plate readers tracking their journey.

Officials say the men later admitted they were aware they were breaking the law. They also reportedly contacted Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) dispatch at one point, claiming they had disposed of the animal. However, when deputies caught up with them in Melbourne, the situation was far from resolved – – and neither was the gator.

Under Florida law, the unauthorized possession or transport of an alligator is a serious offense, classified as a third-degree felony. Both men were arrested and charged accordingly, later posting bond. They are scheduled to appear in court on April 28.

FWC officials continue to remind the public that, even in death, alligators are protected under state law. Anyone encountering a nuisance or deceased gator is urged to contact the Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program rather than attempting a DIY roadside pickup.

As for this ill-fated road trip, it’s a case that proves once again: in Florida, even the strangest travel stories can come with serious consequences.

Video:

~

(Sources: Hoodline, Shepherd Express, Fox 35 Orlando, Brevard County Sheriff’s Office)
(Cover photo is for illustration purposes only)

Posted by Richard Webster, Ace News Today
Follow Richard on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram