Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents cited a Hammond woman for alleged littering and criminal mischief violations in St. John Parish on Feb. 11.

Agents cited Deborah Muscarello, 60, for gross littering and criminal mischief.

LDWF agents discovered an abandoned vessel on Hwy. 51 near the Ruddock boat launch on Jan. 28.  Upon investigation, agents determined Muscarello was the registered owner of the watercraft.

Agents made contact with Muscarello and she claimed the vessel was stolen and she filed a stolen property report with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office.  After further investigation, agents obtained video surveillance showing Muscarello discarding the vessel near the boat launch.

Muscarello subsequently admitted to agents that she illegally disposed of the vessel during a follow-up interview.  She was issued citations for gross littering and criminal mischief for filing a false police report.

Gross littering brings up to a $900 fine and 16 hours of community service in a litter abatement work program.  Criminal mischief brings up to a $500 fine and six months in jail.

Agents participating in this case are Corporal Gary Levron and Agent Mason Castello.  The case will be forwarded to the Office of District Attorney Bridget Dinvaut for prosecution.