FL S1044

Allows digital copies of photographs to serve as admissible evidence in prosecutions for illegal wildlife, freshwater fish, or saltwater fish violations, in addition to original photographs.

Requires digital copies used as evidence be included in the investigating law enforcement officer's written report with descriptions of the alleged illegal taking, violator name, location, officer name, photograph date, and photographer name.

Digital copies may be admitted as evidence without the officer's oath if authenticated in court, and the original photograph must be presented upon request by defendant or court in either digital or printed form.

Original photographs do not need to be marked per previous requirements to be admissible as evidence if digital copies are used, streamlining the evidence documentation process.

Effective date: July 1, 2023.