He's no city slicker, or tourist, or young kid. He's a professional tour boat operator who knows the glades and gators well. He broke the law for money, in order to get a better cash tip from his tour group. (This story was covered quite well by the local press).

This guy knew what he was doing, and he knows why the law is in place. Florida is criss-crossed with waterways, natural and manmade, and alligators can also travel long distances on land looking for fresh habitat and mates. Although these animals are normally no threat to anyone, those who have lost their natural fear of humans are extremely dangerous. This guy is the equivalent of someone who chums for sharks at a public beach.