A federal court has sentenced two individuals for their roles in stealing commercial fishing equipment last year, while another two individuals involved in the crimes were entered into the court’s Pretrial Intervention Program.
“Commercial fishermen rely on their equipment to earn a living, and when that equipment is stolen, the impact extends far beyond the value of the property itself,” Chief Assistant State Attorney Joseph Mansfield said in a release. “These cases demonstrate the commitment of our law enforcement partners and prosecutors to holding offenders accountable and seeking restitution for victims. Those who choose to steal from hardworking members of our community will be held accountable.”
In June 2025, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation into thefts from vessels at two Key West, Florida, U.S.A. marinas. After reviewing surveillance footage, using a license plate reader, and interviewing witnesses, authorities were able to identify four suspects alleged to have stolen rods and reels from multiple vessels.
After pleading no contest to grand theft, Jacob Alexander Swickle and Nino Luca Von Donop-Guzzo were sentenced to 48 months of probation. Swickle was also charged USD 931.75 (EUR 819.43) in various court fees and fines, while Von Donop-Guzzo was charged USD 393.75 (EUR 346.28). Joshua Richard Burns and Daman Anirude were placed in the court’s Pretrial Intervention Program, where they will have to complete 15 hours of community service. Burns was charged USD 1,876 (EUR 1,650) in court fees and fines, and Anirude was charged USD 1,438 (EUR 1,265). If the two complete the program, charges against them will be dismissed.
All four were ordered to contribute in paying USD 8,100 (EUR 7,123) in restitution.
