‘Manhunt For Manatee-Riding Lady Comes To An End In Florida’

We didn’t write that headline–NPR did. Which is to say, even though this story sounds made up, it’s not.

Why would anyone want to ride a manatee, anyway? Ask Ana Gloria Garcia Gutierrez, who was photographed attempting such a feat in Pinellas County, Florida. The photographs were released yesterday in a public effort to identify the perpetrator, who turned herself in a few hours later.

Gutierrez was charged with a 2nd degree misdemeanor under the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act, which states it is unlawful for anyone to “intentionally or negligently annoy, molest, harass, or disturb [any manatee].”

We’re not totally sure what this has to do with horses, but it seemed like something the Horse Nation would appreciate anyhow. Thanks to Samantha Clark for the tip!