The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources plans to charge 25 people in a scheme that involved illegally harvesting and selling catfish from public waters.
"This case reflects our commitment to safeguarding Kentucky's natural resources," Col. Jeremy McQueary, director of the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Law Enforcement Division, said in a release. "Illegal commercialization of wildlife – especially through the exploitation of native fish populations – undermines conservation efforts and lawful recreation. We will not tolerate it."
The forthcoming charges stem from a 10-month multi-agency investigation dubbed Operation River Raid that spanned six counties. According to the department, individuals involved in the scheme harvested the catfish from public waterways and then transported them to unregulated or illegally operated pay lakes for sale – a violation of state law. Ultimately, the department said the accused failed to report more than 300,000 pounds of catfish.
"A critical piece of information to properly manage any fishery is accurate harvest rates," Fisheries Division Director Dave Dreves said. "That is why commercial fishers are required to report their harvest each month. This egregious underreporting undermines our ability to properly monitor catfish populations, especially trophy catfish."
Law enforcement claims it will file more than 700 criminal charges against the 25 individuals identified in the investigation, with more than 100 felony counts, but authorities are still reviewing evidence.
"This case sends a strong message," Law Enforcement Division Assistant Director Maj. David Marques said in a release. "If you profit from poaching or operate outside the law, we will find you, and you will be held accountable."
