Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents cited six subjects for alleged red snapper violations in the federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Plaquemines Parish on May 16.
Agents were on a joint enforcement agreement (JEA) patrol and noticed a fishing vessel near an oil platform approximately 13 miles offshore. The subjects on the vessel were in possession of 10 Red Snapper and were approximately three miles beyond the nine nautical mile line.
Agents cited Ryan Baldassaro, 22, from Metairie, Nathan Randazzo, 18, from Marrero, Brandt Becnel, 21, from Belle Chase, Thomas Becnel Jr, 56, from Belle Chase, Patrick Becnel Jr, 24, from Belle Chase, and Nathaniel Peters, 22, from Metairie, for taking red snapper during a closed season. Agents seized 10 red snapper which were later donated to a local charity.
Taking red snapper during a closed season brings a $100 to $350 fine and up to 60 days in jail. The subjects may also be subject to civil restitution totaling $229 for the illegally taken fish.
Agents involved in the case are Lt. Adam Young, Lt. Jason Russo, Senior Agent William Bartlett and Senior Agent Jeffrey Farmer.