Florida Fish and Wildlife Conser
Ryan William Waterman of Fort Pierce, Florida was arrested for petting and holding a manatee calf, which is against Florida law.
A Florida man is facing jail time for posting pictures of himself hugging a manatee calf on Facebook.
Ryan William Waterman is accused of "molesting, harassing or disturbing" the endangered animal with his antics.
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Cops detained the 21-year-old, from Fort Pierce, on Sunday.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, who filed the misdemeanor charge, said they were tipped off by an anonymous caller who saw the snaps online.
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Other photos appear to show him allowing two young children to sit on the animal.
He is also seen lifting the calf out of the water.
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Investigators say they believe the pictures were taken in St Lucie County in January.
A FFWCC spokesman told WPTV, "An interaction that may seem harmless and innocent may ultimately have serious consequences for manatees and other wildlife.
"This was a young manatee which was likely still dependent on its mother for food and protection. Separating the two could have severe consequences for the calf."
The second-degree misdemeanor for harming a manatee carries up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.
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