Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, alongside the Florida Fish and Wildlife Department, announced charges against 10 people accused of poaching 23,000 pounds of fish and selling protected sea turtles in an illegal commercial fishing operation.
“We plan to leave Florida better to God than how we found it, and poachers abusing our natural resources will be prosecuted to the fullest extent,” Uthmeier said in a release. “Those who abuse our waters and wildlife will find out how tough our laws are. The Office of Statewide Prosecution, FWC, and our local law enforcement officers will ensure criminals are caught and punished.”
According to Attorney General Uthmier, the multi-year undercover investigation began after law enforcement looked into complaints about reef fish poaching in the Gulf of America, with one of the suspects approaching officials about buying illegally caught fish. Investigators say the suspects allegedly caught "far more" red snapper and gag grouper allowed while avoiding reporting requirements by selling their catch at night, out of their homes, or through on-the-water handoffs.
Over $150,000 worth of fish, shrimp, and turtles were sold, investigators believe.
“Florida’s fisheries belong to all of us, and the rules exist to protect these resources and the fishermen who play by them,” FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto said. “I’m proud of the hard work and dedication of our undercover officers over the past four years. We need thorough enforcement, accurate reporting, and accountability to ensure Florida’s fisheries remain healthy and sustainable for everyone.”
All 10 individuals were charged with racketeering, conspiracy to commit racketeering and cheating. Several were also charged with unlawful use of a two-Way communication device, while three of the defendants, Terry Carrington, Anthony Folsom, and Jordan Neylan - were charged with unlawful possession or sale of marine turtles
All face 65 to 75 years in prison if convicted.
“Commercial fisherman are an integral part of our communities and Florida’s economy,” FWC Division of Law Enforcement Col. Alberto Maza added. “The actions of these poachers undermine Florida’s resources, the livelihoods of law-abiding fisherman, and the interests of all Floridians. I’m incredibly proud of our investigators commitment to protecting Florida’s fisheries and fishing industry and their tireless work to bring these poaching fraudsters to justice.”
