In a recent Middletown boat inspection, environmental police released body‑camera video that captured a routine check turning into a significant fisheries enforcement action. The footage, obtained by local news outlet WJAR, shows Officer John Miller questioning a crew about the number of “keepers” they had on board. One fisherman initially replied, “Six,” before the officer began inspecting the cooler.
Discovery of undeclared fish
As Officer Miller opened the cooler, he counted a total of 136 individual fillets, which he calculated as representing 68 fish. The crew had told the officer that no fish were aboard because the commercial fishing license holder was ill that day. When confronted, a fisherman admitted, “I lied.” The officer explained that without the licensed holder present, the crew was subject to recreational fishing limits, not commercial allowances.
Seizure and citations
Environmental police later reported seizing 140 fillets in total: 90 suspected to be black sea bass and 50 identified as tautog. All of the fish were confiscated, and the department issued a citation to one crew member for fishing violations. In addition, the group received a $700 fine for boating‑safety infractions identified during the same inspection.
Context and enforcement
The incident underscores the importance of state fisheries regulations that protect marine resources and ensure that commercial fishing privileges are not misused. Rhode Island’s Department of Environmental Management (DEM) enforces strict limits on recreational catches, and violations can result in both fish seizures and monetary penalties. By conducting thorough inspections, local officers help preserve the health of the Atlantic fisheries that support both commercial and recreational anglers.
Community response
Local anglers and fishing charter operators have expressed mixed reactions. Some commend the department’s vigilance in protecting fish stocks, while others argue that the crew’s misunderstanding of licensing rules contributed to the incident. The DEM plans to increase outreach to seasonal crews about the proper procedures when a licensed holder is unavailable, aiming to prevent similar misunderstandings in the future.
For residents and boaters in Middletown, the case serves as a reminder to verify licensing status before heading out to sea and to be transparent with enforcement officers during inspections. The department encourages anyone with questions about fishing limits or licensing requirements to contact the Middletown environmental police office.
Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
