Massachusetts Environmental Police seize illegal bluefin tuna catch from fish market

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“In October of 2021, Officers assigned to the Massachusetts Environmental Police Offshore Patrol Boats initiated an investigation into the illegal sale of Blue Fin Tuna, a federally regulated highly migratory species. Through their investigation, officers discovered that several blue fin tuna had been sold illegally to a Gloucester fish market.

Criminal charges were taken out against the Captain of the vessel in Gloucester District Court. In late November 2022, the Captain signed a plea deal with the Commonwealth and paid $13,000 in fines for the illegal sale of the fish.

It is illegal for an individual without a commercial permit issued through the Department of Marine Fisheries to sell any fish that they catch; additionally, it is illegal for a fish house to purchase fish from an unpermitted individual. These requirements assist the Division of Marine Fisheries and NOAA to regulate catch quotas that are in place to ensure the long term survivability of fish species.”-Massachusetts Environmental Police.

About Michael Silvia

Served 20 years in the United States Air Force. Owner of New Bedford Guide.

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