I have seen HPD do it before.
Even if they don't issue out the actual citation or arrest they can still document the information with photos, witnesses, and suspect information. The understaffed DLNR or whoever else can then use that report to initiate a criminal charge.
You can try and justify your incorrect information all you want, but you are still wrong.
Just because you claim to have seen some Cop do something with a turtle report before doesn't mean you should be posting your opinion as the correct procedure.
HPD has limited resources, too, just like DLNR. I recommend we not tie up police with sea turtle reports when they may be needed for a more important call.
HPD is City & County. DLNR is State jurisdiction. On that point alone, DLNR has more to do with this than HPD.
Again, the correct, documented process is to NOT CALL 911. They specifically state that on the NOAA website.
If you choose to call 911 for DLNR reporting, that's fine for you. Just don't tell others to follow you in your personal choice. The official guidance is 180 degrees from your instructions.