Illegal Lobster Bust: Bronx Seafood Dealer Caught with Undersized Catch

Bronx, NY — In a joint effort to combat illegal seafood sales, Environmental Conservation Officers (ECOs) Ableson, Currey, and Veloski, along with agents from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service, conducted routine inspections of wholesale seafood dealers in the Bronx on March 13.

During the inspections, officers discovered a seafood shop in possession of 168 undersized American lobsters. According to state regulations, lobsters must meet a minimum size requirement to be legally harvested and sold, ensuring the species’ sustainability. The store owner was promptly issued a Notice of Violation for the illegal sale and possession of undersized lobsters.

As part of the enforcement response, the confiscated lobsters were donated to the Bowery Mission in Manhattan. The charitable donation provided a welcome supply of fresh seafood to help feed individuals in need across New York City.

The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) continues to monitor and enforce regulations designed to protect marine life and ensure ethical business practices in the seafood industry. Consumers and retailers are encouraged to report any suspected illegal activities involving seafood sales.

For further information on seafood regulations and compliance, visit the NOAA Fisheries or NYS DEC website.

Contact: New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

Phone: (555) 123-4567Email: info@dec.ny.gov