Three individuals cited for shrimping in Louisiana during closed season

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has cited three individuals for violating state shrimping rules, including using skimmer nets during the closed season. While the fall inshore shrimping season began on 17 August, enforcement agents caught suspects early. On 13 August in Terrebonne Parish, agents encountered 56-year-old Paul Pierre using skimmer nets and found 1,550 pounds of shrimp on board, which was sold to the highest bidder. The following day in Plaquemines Parish, agents cited 55-year-old Michael Champlin and 25-year-old Mikeal Bethelot for using skimmer nets in closed waters, and returned 20 pounds of live shrimp to the water. Penalties range from $400 to $950 and up to 120 days in jail.