A federal jury has found a commercial fisher operating out of South Carolina guilty of making false statements about the fish he caught and lying to federal agents.
“Those who attempt to circumvent federal fishing regulations and deceive law enforcement will be held accountable. Our marine resources are vital, and we will not tolerate those who prioritize personal gain over sustainable practices and the rule of law,” Acting U.S. Attorney Brook B. Andrews for the District of South Carolina said in a statement. “This conviction underscores the collaborative efforts of NOAA and [the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources] in protecting our fisheries and ensuring fair competition for all.”
The commercial fisher at the heart of the investigation is Augustine, Florida resident Don Rynn, who manages several commercial vessels in South Carolina, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. The government alleges that on March 21, 2023, Rynn directed his son to take one of the vessels out and “catch as many fish as he could,” despite existing quotas. The vessel returned less than a week later with 560 pounds of snowy grouper – nearly three times the legal limit. The vessel also had roughly 450 pounds of tilefish – also more than the legal limit…