St. Pete Beach could seek restitution and a voice in the criminal case involving hundreds of toxic mothballs scattered near a threatened shorebird nesting colony, as one city commissioner pushes for the maximum possible penalties if two local business owners are convicted.
During the Aug. 25 City Commission meeting, Commissioner Jon Maldonado urged the city to take an active role in the case. He said St. Pete Beach should characterize itself as a victim and make its position known to prosecutors before the case is resolved. Maldonado stressed that the defendants are presumed innocent.
“I personally would push for the maximum sentence if these persons are found guilty, that they’re held accountable to the highest standards,” Maldonado said…