Man cited in illegal lobster case

A 31-year-old Lake Wales, Florida man was cited for possessing undersized lobsters while diving in the Everglades National Park Wednesday afternoon.

Roberto Caro was given a mandatory notice to appear in court citation for possessing three undersized lobsters.

Upper Keys Marine Deputy Nelson Sanchez was on boat patrol near Mile Marker 82 bayside about 3:48 p.m. when he spotted a small aluminum vessel and two divers nearby with no diver down flag. One of the divers was holding a trident-style gigging spear. Deputy Sanchez ordered the men to board their boat. When asked if they had any catch, one of the men — identified as Caro — stated they did and the catch “definitely need to go back” into the water.

Deputy Sanchez immediately spotted three lobsters on the deck that were obviously undersized. One of the lobsters measured about three inches.

Caro admitted to harvesting the lobsters.

The lobsters were returned to the water alive.

The harvest of lobster is prohibited in Everglades National Park as well as John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and in the Biscayne Bay/Card Sound Lobster Sanctuary.

For more information on prohibited lobster harvest areas visit https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/lobster/