Two Miami Fishermen Cited for over 1,300 Counts of Misdemeanor Conservation Violations

Two 49-year-old men from Miami were cited after allegedly being found fishing in the Tortugas Ecological Reserve. The area was enacted as a no-fishing zone under the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary laws. According to reports by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officers, the boat's vessel monitoring system signal alerted officers that a commercial boat was stopped within the no-fishing zone. According to law, commercial boats are allowed to traverse reserves but may not stop if they have fish aboard and may not fish in the area. The officers went to investigate after observing the tracking signal to be allegedly turned off and on in an effort to prevent tracking. FWC officers reported finding the boat's owner, E.F., and mate, J.G., "…actively harvesting yellowtail snapper by hook and line…" The report also indicated that the two men were surprised to see the FWC officers. The officers reportedly found 664 yellowtail snapper on board and there were lines with baited hooks in the water. Each man has been charged with 664 counts for the federal offense of illegally fishing in the area. The incident occurred about a week after a scientific report was published which described how many species, including yellowtail snapper, were increasing in population within the reserve. The two men could be facing thousands in fines for the incident. Don't hesitate to get the help of a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney immediately after being charged or arrested for a crime.

Have you been charged with federal crime in the Miami-Dade area?

Federal offense charges can mean severe penalties. Federal agencies have more resources to pursue an alleged crime in many cases when compared to state or local criminal investigations. So if you have been charged with a federal crime then you need tough and highly competent defense representation that knows how to deal with such cases. Contact the law offices of Parks and Braxton, PA immediately to schedule an initial consultation. We are dedicated to defending our clients by developing a solid defense strategy using all of our extensive resources and experience in criminal law. We aren't intimidated by federal prosecutors and we fight hard on our client's behalf to ensure their rights and liberties are not violated. Our clients have learned firsthand that they can trust a criminal defense lawyer at our firm to really listen to them and to be available 24 hours a day. Don't face a criminal charge on your own!