MONROE COUNTY, Fla. – Two men have been cited for marine wildlife violations in separate incidents over the weekend, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.
Marine Deputy Luis Guiardinu issued citations to both individuals for violations related to ornamental fish species.
Porkfish Violation: On Saturday, at approximately 3:33 p.m., near Mile Marker 72, Deputy Guiardinu observed Lazaro Hidalgo, 37, of Hialeah, Florida, in possession of two dead porkfish. Porkfish are an ornamental species and must be kept alive with an aeration/livewell system.
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Gray Angelfish Violation and Dive Flag Issue: Later that day, at approximately 5:34 p.m., near Mile Marker 60.5, Deputy Guiardinu observed Jacob Nicholas Vesche, 26, of Pompano Beach, Florida, in possession of a speared gray angelfish. Gray angelfish are also an ornamental species requiring an aeration/livewell system. Vesche was additionally cited for diving without a dive flag.
Both Hidalgo and Vesche were issued mandatory notices to appear in court.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office reminds the public to familiarize themselves with wildlife regulations, which can be found at www.myfwc.com.
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