Anger over stolen lobsters underscores Maine's complicated relationship with tourism

A theft of lobsters is stirring anger in Maine’s summer tourism scene, highlighting tensions between year-round workers and seasonal visitors. In late July, Lindsay McDaniels—“Lobsta Lindsay” among local fishermen—reported 30 hard-shell and jumbo lobsters stolen from her stash at a dock in Northeast Harbor. She said the two men seen in marina surveillance walked off with her traps and were likely trying to sell them the same day for $300 to $500. The theft occurred July 24 late afternoon. McDaniels told Mount Desert Police the men may not have mistaken her crates, and the case remains under investigation. Maine Marine Patrol is also involved, as residents debate what happens when visitors overlook local norms.