Mississippi resident cited for fishing guide violations in Plaquemines Parish

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents cited a Mississippi man for alleged commercial guide and recreational fishing violations in Plaquemines Parish on Oct. 3.

Agents cited Robert Bennett of Purvis, Miss., for violating charter boat regulations and obtaining a license by fraud.

Agents were on patrol in the Venice area when they encountered Bennett and three occupants on his vessel possessing saltwater finfish. During the license inspection, agents noticed the three occupants possessed non-resident three-day guide passenger licenses. The three occupants informed agents they paid Bennett for a guided fishing trip. Bennett was unable to produce a U.S. Coast Guard captain’s license.

Agents also found Bennett in possession of a Louisiana ID with a Monroe address and a Mississippi driver’s license with Louisiana resident recreational hunting and fishing licenses. Bennett also admitted he was guiding without the required guide licenses. Agents informed him that he obtained his resident recreational hunting and fishing privileges fraudulently because he does not meet the qualifications of a bona fide Louisiana resident.

Failing to comply with charter boat guide regulations carries up to a $950 fine 120 days in jail. Obtaining licenses by fraud carries a up to a $500 fine and 90 days in jail.

Agents participating in the case are Sgt. Edward Ridgel and Sgt. Villere Reggio.