Threats, backlash after lobster pageant winner dethroned

PORTLAND, Maine – Organizers of one of Maine’s highest profile summer events who decided to strip a lobster pageant winner of her title over online photos say they’re dealing with death threats and backlash.

The 2018 Maine Lobster Festival Sea Goddess was dethroned shortly after she was crowned last week because of what organizers described as photos of “inappropriate behaviour.” Photos showed 18-year-old Taylor Hamlin holding a marijuana cigarette and a vaping device.

The volunteers who run the event say people involved in organizing the festival have received everything from mocking comments on Facebook to death threats. Some also say they believe more local residents stayed away from the event this year because of the controversy.

The lobster festival happens every year in Rockland, 80 miles (128 kilometres) up the coast from Portland.