A marine deputy witnessed the suspect discarding lobster tails into the water near the Channel Five Bridge.
A 40-year-old Oldsmar man was arrested Saturday after a Monroe County Sheriff Marine Deputy discovered him in possession of numerous undersized and illegally speared lobsters.
According to a report from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Willie Guerra was on patrol near the Channel Five Bridge at approximately 12:15 p.m. when he observed Alexander Alfonso Matos throwing multiple lobster tails into the water.
Upon questioning, Matos admitted that he had been discarding undersized lobsters.
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Further investigation by Deputy Guerra led to the recovery of multiple lobsters, along with a spear gun from the water. Two of the recovered lobsters had puncture wounds consistent with being speared, a practice that is illegal in Florida.
Matos faces multiple charges related to the incident, including possession of nine over-the-limit lobsters, eight undersized lobsters, two speared lobsters, and wringing tails in the water. He was transported to jail following his arrest.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regulations are strict regarding lobster harvesting to ensure the sustainability of the species. Violations can result in significant fines and jail time. The FWC encourages the public to report any suspected illegal fishing or wildlife activities.
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