In a recent turn of events, the political arm of the progressive environmental organization, Center for Biological Diversity, has urged federal authorities to investigate an incident involving Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the alleged illegal collection of parts from a protected marine animal. The episode, recounted by Mr. Kennedy's daughter in a magazine article back in 2012, raised concerns about potential violations of federal marine conservation laws.

According to the article, Mr. Kennedy is said to have chainsawed the head off a dead whale on a beach in Hyannis Port, Massachusettes, and then strapped it to the roof of their family minivan. The Kennedy family then allegedly transported the severed head over a five-hour drive to their home in Mount Kisco, N.Y. Kick Kennedy, Mr. Kennedy's daughter, described the incident as "the rankest thing on the planet" and highlighted Mr. Kennedy's interest in studying animal skulls and skeletons.

Brett Hartl, the national political director for the Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, wrote a letter to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, expressing concern over the potential violation of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (1972), the Endangered Species Act (1973), and the Lacey Act of 1900. These laws prohibit the collection and transportation of parts from endangered species, interference with scientific research, and the transportation of illegally gathered wildlife across state lines.

Mr. Hartl emphasized the importance of studying marine mammals, particularly those that are rare and can only be studied through washed-up carcasses. He pointed out that Mr. Kennedy's actions may have resulted in lost research opportunities for scientists. Mr. Hartl also noted that this incident was different from Mr. Kennedy's admission of leaving a dead bear cub in Central Park in 2014, stating that the alleged violation with the whale carcass was a "far worse" offense.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his roles as an environmental lawyer and a collector and handler of wild animals, has previously faced scrutiny for his activities with wildlife. These have included keeping taxidermized animals, such as a former pet turtle and a rare Sumatran tiger, as well as owning emus that were tragically killed by a mountain lion and a family dog.

While Mr. Kennedy's interactions with wildlife have sparked curiosity, there are concerns that some of his activities may have crossed legal boundaries. Violations such as capturing certain species of crows, illegal possession, and illegal disposal of bears have raised questions about compliance with federal and state wildlife laws.

The Center for Biological Diversity's call for an investigation into the alleged violation involving the whale carcass reinforces the importance of upholding marine conservation laws. The organization highlights that such laws were enacted decades ago, with wide support, and are not to be disregarded.

As this investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Mr. Kennedy's actions will have legal consequences that could extend even three decades after the incident. The potential charges he may face could carry significant penalties, emphasizing the need for individuals, even those with notable backgrounds, to adhere to the law in protecting and conserving the environment.