Woman’s Claim of 20 Years of Harvesting Doesn’t Excuse Out-of-Season Possession
A Naples woman faces a mandatory court appearance after being cited for possessing an out-of-season lobster during a traffic stop in Key West early Thursday morning.
Maria Eugenia Heiser, 49, was issued a notice to appear in court after Deputy Ross Hughes of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office pulled over a Dodge pickup truck at approximately 12:19 a.m. for having no taillights. During the stop, an out-of-season lobster was discovered.
READ: Miami Man Cited For Illegal Spearfishing And Undersized Lobster In Florida Keys
Heiser reportedly told authorities that she has been visiting Monroe County for 20 years, specifically to harvest lobster.
The possession of out-of-season lobster is a violation of Florida fishing regulations, designed to protect lobster populations during their reproductive cycles. Individuals found in violation can face fines and other penalties.
The current lobster season in Florida is regulated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), with specific dates for both the recreational mini-season and regular season.
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