YouTuber and boxer Jake Paul is under investigation by Puerto Rico's Department of Natural and Environmental Resources after posting a video that appears to show him driving on a protected beach where turtles nest. The video, shared on Instagram, depicted Paul and others in two vehicles on the sand, but has since been removed.
Driving is illegal on certain beaches in Puerto Rico to protect nesting turtles, especially during the February to August nesting and hatching season. The island's beaches host several protected species, including the endangered leatherback turtle.
Environment Secretary Rafael Machargo confirmed an investigation into the incident. 'I have ordered an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the use of two motor vehicles on beaches that are presumed to be in Puerto Rico,' he said, adding that the activity is prohibited to protect the environment and species.
The video sparked widespread criticism, with many accusing Paul of endangering turtles by potentially crushing eggs. One Puerto Rican resident tweeted that Paul was 'destroying our beaches.' Sources close to Paul told TMZ that he is a 'huge animal lover.'
Violators of the beach driving ban face fines and other penalties. Machargo praised citizens who report environmental damage caused by 'ignorance or unscrupulousness.'
