Two commercial fishing companies have been cited for fishing violations related to the harvest of menhaden. The charges are a result of three separate incidents where the contents of menhaden purse seines were spilled or released, leading to dead fish being found on Cameron Parish beaches in September.

Omega Protein was cited for failing to report the release of purse seine gear or menhaden within two hours on September 20, while Westbank Fishing LLC was cited for excessive killing of fish on October 4.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) agents initiated an investigation upon discovering the dead fish on the beach, and further charges may be pending as the investigation continues. In addition to the citations, both companies will be required to provide civil restitution for the value of the fish that were released or lost in each incident.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.