Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller is being investigated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission after he posted a photo of himself with a bloodied hammerhead shark.
A spokesperson for the commission confirmed that the FWC is “looking into whether or not a violation occurred in this incident” and that an investigation is ongoing.
Miller posted the photo of himself holding the shark on his Instagram story, and TMZ also shared a video of the catch and release of the shark. It is not clear whether the shark was dead or alive.
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A spokesperson for the Broncos had no comment.
According to the FWC, certain sharks are prohibited from harvest in state waters, including the great hammerhead, the scalloped hammerhead and the smooth hammerhead.
Miller could face a second-degree misdemeanor which is punishable by a fine of up to $500 and 60 days in jail, CBS reported.
In response to the photo, PETA senior director Stephanie Bell told TheWrap, “Seeing Von Miller smile as he holds a shark’s bloody body should turn any kind person’s stomach. This man has a reported history of bullying animals — having previously made the news for wrestling an alligator — and PETA has inquired with officials to ensure that Miller is held accountable for dragging the shark out of the water and onto a boat for photo ops, likely causing fatal injuries during the ordeal.”
Miller was named Super Bowl MVP after the Broncos defeated the Carolina Panthers in the Super Bowl 50, and appeared on Season 22 of “Dancing With the Stars” following his victory.