under the Lacey Act. All were based on underlying 
violations of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. 
Fifteen defendants received jail sentences, including 
the captain of a walrus hunting crew videotaped 
engaging in headhunting. The captain’s 15-month jail 
sentence is believed to be the stiffest penalty ever 
handed down for misdemeanor violations of the 
Marine Mammal Protection Act. Four defendants 
have appealed their convictions. 
Other possible violations of Federal law are being 
investigated as part of “Operation Whiteout.” 
165 
Chapter VII] — Marine Mammals in Alaska 
