A hammerhead shark catch from last spring won't result in charges for NFLer Von Miller.
Denver Broncos defensive star Von Miller will escape any charges for catching a hammerhead shark during a fishing trip off the coast of Miami last year, according to records obtained by USA Today Sports.
The hammerhead catch, and subsequent Instagram post, led to an investigation (along with PETA-led vitriol aimed at the Pro Bowler). Records issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicated that the owner and operator of Spellbound, the fishing boat Miller was on that day, were charged with fishing for sharks without the proper permit and for failure to release a shark in the manner that will ensure maximum probability of survival.
At the time of the investigation's start, Miller defended himself from the social media backlash and was quoted as saying "We followed the rules."
The 9-and-a-half-foot hammerhead prompted a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which lists the species as "prohibited." Catching hammerhead sharks isn't illegal, but what happens after a catch is heavily regulated.
According to the FWC's website, photographs or measuring of the species is allowed, but only during the active act of release, and should not delay the process in any way.
Had he been convicted, Miller was facing up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine, as determined by a judge.
Miller, who's been in the NFL and a member of the Denver Broncos since he selected second overall in the NFL draft out of Texas A&M in 2011, is an avid outdoorsman. His Instagram account routinely depicts him touting a bow and pursuing big game or enjoying a fishing excursion.
The boat's owner and operator were handed their two charges under the Magnuson-Stevens Act, and a $2,000 notice of violation and assessment was issued, according to records.
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