To Protect And Serve

A Loggerhead Hatchling
Photo credit: NPS

Derek Conley, a Sarasota Police officer was out just doing his job, when he was presented with a very unusual chance to be a hero.
You see, Officer Conley saved nearly 100 baby sea turtles who had taken a wrong turn on their way out to sea and freedom and were heading into a hotel at Lido Beach.
This man’s awesome actions gives a whole new meaning to the standard police motto which proudly states, that their duty is to, “protect and serve.”
When Officer Conley came upon the large number of hatchlings crossing the parking lot at a Resort, he jumped into action and with the help of some of the guests at the hotel, he quickly scooped up nearly 100 sea turtle hatchlings who were headed in the wrong direction, instead of towards the beach.
It was very apparent that the little ones were obviously distracted by the bright lights at the Resort.
This aware and alert Officer even had the presence of mind to call the correct authorities about the situation, as well as stop traffic to protect the babies.
This is such a critical time in Florida and other sea turtle nesting areas right now, which is why residents along the beaches known to have nests are instructed to observe “ lights out ” until the end of October, to save the hatchlings lives.
And in this case, these little ones were very lucky to have a man on duty who did exactly all of the right things, at the right time.

Learn more about this awesome rescue:
Sarasota Police Officer Rescues Nearly 100 Sea Turtle Hatchlings
Police Officer Saves Baby Sea Turtles
Florida Police Officer Saves Dozens Of Baby Sea Turtles
Florida Cop Saves 100 Baby Turtles