An enforcement agent of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has cited four individuals for separate fishing and hunting violations in Terrebonne Parish, according to a report released today. Senior Agent Troy Autin, on May 21, executed duties protecting the ecosystem and ensuring adherence to the regulations that help preserve Louisiana's natural resources.
Darrell J. Luke, 60, of Dulac, found himself on the wrong side of the law, being cited for possessing a haul of immature female blue crabs over the limit on Bayou Dulac. In reinforcing the laws designed to sustain crab populations, one crate of crabs was seized and returned to water, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries press release. Meanwhile, Jose Ortiz, 40, from Chauvin, was cited for oyster harvester log book violations and for his lack of written permission to harvest oysters from leased waters on Bayou Little Caillou, resulting in one sack of oysters being confiscated and also returned to the water.
Robert Conklin, aged 52 of Chauvin, was confronted for failing to possess his commercial vessel license while on Bayou Sale. A potentially costly oversight, such an offense can result a fine between $250 to $500 and up to 90 days in jail. Lastly, Kenny Billiot, 44, from Houma, faced the long arm of the law for possessing an alligator during a closed season in Ashland, an incident that led to the alligator being seized by authorities.
The fines for these violations vary significantly, with the taking of immature blue crabs, harvesting oysters without permission, and possessing an alligator during a closed season could lead to fines ranging from $400 to $950 and up to 120 days in jail for each offense. Caught during a period deemed vital for their preservation, the alligator by Billiot resulted in a civil restitution of $376 for its replacement value as noted in the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries official statement. Violating oyster harvester log book regulations, on the other hand, is a less egregious offense, carrying up to a $25 fine.
