James A. (Tony) Rodriguez
Special Agent
U.S. Department of Commerce
NOAA Fisheries - Office of Law Enforcement
James.Rodriguez@noaa.gov
O – 954.746.4160 Ext. 302
www.nmfs.noaa.gov/ole
https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl/pr...shing-activity
My Name is Tone Calle and I have agreed to post about my experience in 2014 with the FWC (Florida
Wildlife Commission) as part of an apology for spearfishing in a Special Management Zone in Key
Largo (which is part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary) and impeding a law enforcement
officer during his investigation.
I've been spearfishing and boating in South Florida for many years now. On May 30. 2014, while
spearfishing with a friend, we went into the Special Management Zone in Key Largo, Florida. While I
was in the water, a Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Officer approached my vessel and informed
us we were in a prohibited zone. The Officer began to question us and against my better judgment, I
was not honest with the officer and denied that I was spearfishing.
I was charged with impeding a law enforcement officer during his investigation and apologize for my
lapse of good judgement - I have paid deeply for it.
I urge everyone to be more vigilant and stay updated about the rules and regulations governing
spear fishing activity, and to cooperate with the officials who are responsible for protecting our
waters.