Orange Walk fisherman fined over $12,000 for undersized conchs

By Breaking Belize News Staff: An Orange Walk fisherman was fined over $12,000 in the Belize City Magistrate’s Court this week for having undersized conchs.

Louisiana resident, 19-year-old Nelson Orellano appeared in court charged with possession of undersized conch in relation to 231 pieces of conch found in his possession while he was detained at the Caye Caulker Police Station.

Orellano pleaded guilty to the offense and was fined $1,000 plus $5 cost of court which he has until January 3, 2023, to pay or he will face six months in prison. He was additionally fined $50 for each piece of undersized conch, which added up to $11,550 for a total fine of $12,555.

He is to pay $200 monthly towards the other fine until the amount is paid in full. If not the court will seize and sell off his assets to cover the cost in a procedure called distress.

Orellano was detained by police on November 21, after they suspected he was carrying illegal fisheries. Police then sought the assistance of Fisheries Officers, who confirmed the suspicion and he was charged.

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