National Marine Fisheries Service vs. Gloucester Seafood Auction
Action: Notice of "violations" on the part of the Gloucester Seafood Auction; notice issued by National Marine Fisheries Service.
Notification: Letter to Auction, dated Friday, Feb 13.
Penalty: Notice of fines totaling $355,200, plus a 120-day shutdown.
Number of Allegation Counts: 59, dating to 2004.
Sample Alleged Violations:
Count 4C: On or about Dec. 12, 2005, the respondent (the auction) unlawfully possessed, had custody or control of, purchased or offered for sale 133 pounds of cod landed by the fishing vessel Sea Witch, 58 pounds in excess of the vessel's possession limit.
Count 16A: On or about Aug. 17, 2006, the respondent possessed or had custody or control of 11 cod landed by the fishing vessels Kristine Marie and Padre Pio that measured 21 1/2 inches or less, when the minimum size was 22 inches.
Count 33F: On or about Dec. 31, 2005, respondent unlawfully possessed or had custody or control of, or offered for sale 78 pounds of yellowtail flounder landed by the fishing vessel Ocean Reporter when the vessel was not authorized to land yellowtail flounder.
Hearings Prior to Order: None.
Auction Appeal Option: Auction officials can appeal through hearings conducted by the U.S. Department of Commerce, NMFS' parent Cabinet department.
