Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents issued 10 citations for alleged oyster violations to men on three separate vessels on Sept. 15 in Sister Lake in Terrebonne Parish.
Agents cited Johnathan M. Reyes, 25, of Houma, Louis M. Carbajal, 23, of Houma, John T. Parker, 25, of Houma, Zachary Lacoste, 19, of Chauvin, Avilez A. Carbajal, 51, of Theriot, Teddy D. Dardar, 28, of Houma, and Dylan D. Parker, 21, of Houma, for taking oysters during a closed season on Sister Lake. Reyes was also charged with taking oysters without a commercial license. Parker was also charged with violating the oyster sanitation code and failing to possess a commercial license.
Agents received numerous complaints about oyster vessels operating on the Sister Lake State Seed in early September. During this particular patrol of the area agents found three vessels actively dredging for oysters in the closed area.
Agents seized 33 sacks of oysters and returned them to Sister Lake.
Taking oysters during a closed season on state water bottoms brings a $900 to $950 fine and up to 120 days in jail. Failing to possess a commercial license and taking oysters without a commercial license each bring a $250 to $500 fine and up to 90 days in jail. Violating the oyster sanitation code carries a $25 fine and up to 10 days in jail.
Agents participating in the case are Senior Agent Stephen Rhodes and Agent Ryan Breaux.
For more information, contact Adam Einck at 225-765-2465 or aeinck@wlf.la.gov.