Man identified after causing disturbance to dolphins in St Austell

A Cornwall man who used his jet-ski to disturb a pod of dolphins swimming in St Austell Bay has been issued with a community protection warning (CPW).

Police were made aware of the incident which took place in June this year, where the man was spotted deliberately approaching the dolphins and encouraging others to do the same.

It is illegal to intentionally and recklessly disturb dolphins, porpoises, whales and basking sharks under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

The person involved has been identified and handed a CPW which outlines a number of conditions they must follow, including not to follow or pursue any marine wildlife in any watercraft. 

A breach of this order can result in further prosecution under the Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 1984

“We’re lucky to have a vast amount of wildlife across the bays in Cornwall. Whilst sightings of these animals is exciting, it’s important we respect their space,” said PS Martin Easter.

"In this case, the individual had no regard for the dolphins or how his deliberate behaviour could cause a disturbance, even hailing for more people to come over and join him in doing so.”

PS Easter added: “Our ask is that people enjoy our waters, but to make sure they do so safely and responsibly."

If you spot marine mammals while in the ocean, try to stay at least 100 metres (330 feet) away. If this is not possible, you should leave as much space as you can.

Further advice on the marine and coastal wildlife code is available on the GOV website: Marine and coastal wildlife code: advice for visitors - GOV.UK