Marine Deputy Luis Guiardinu of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office issued mandatory court citations on Wednesday evening after stopping two St. Augustine residents handling illegal lobster catches at Sunshine Key Resort in the Lower Florida Keys.
Details of the encounter
At approximately 6 p.m. on Aug. 19, Deputy Guiardinu observed the pair handling lobsters that appeared to be below the state‑mandated size limit. An on‑site inspection confirmed the suspicion. Michael Joseph Serra, 44, was found with three undersized lobsters, while Chant’e Engram, 46, possessed six.
Both individuals were issued notice‑to‑appear citations, requiring them to appear in court for a mandatory hearing. The citations are part of the county’s effort to enforce Florida’s marine resource regulations and protect the sustainability of the lobster fishery.
State regulations and public guidance
Florida law sets a minimum carapace length for lobsters that may be legally harvested. The size limit is intended to ensure that juvenile lobsters have a chance to mature and reproduce, preserving the resource for future generations. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office advises anyone planning to harvest marine life to review the current rules on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website at www.myfwc.com before heading out.
Deputy Guiardinu emphasized that the citations are not punitive measures aimed at individuals but rather educational tools to remind the public of the importance of adhering to size limits. “Our goal is to protect the lobster population and maintain a healthy ecosystem for both residents and visitors,” he said.
Impact on the community
The incident underscores the ongoing responsibility of local law‑enforcement agencies to enforce wildlife regulations in the Keys, a region heavily dependent on tourism and marine recreation. Residents and tourists alike are encouraged to familiarize themselves with local harvesting rules to avoid similar citations.
For those who may have inadvertently violated the size limit, the court appearance provides an opportunity to address the matter and receive guidance on proper harvesting practices. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office continues to monitor compliance and will conduct additional patrols throughout the season.
What to do if you’re cited
Anyone receiving a notice‑to‑appear citation should appear on the scheduled court date, bring any relevant documentation, and be prepared to discuss the circumstances of the catch. Legal counsel is permitted, and the court may impose a fine or require community service related to marine conservation, depending on the specifics of the case.
Community members with questions about lobster size limits or other marine regulations can contact the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office or visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website for detailed information.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
