34 Lobsters Hidden In Baby Stroller, Bags Seized In LA County

SANTA MONICA, CA — Six people were arrested recently after state authorities found 34 illegally caught lobsters hidden in bags, vehicles and a baby stroller at the Santa Monica Pier, officials said.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife officers from across Southern California took part in the enforcement operation after the state’s recreational spiny lobster season closed March 18, the agency said Tuesday.

Officials said the suspects took extensive steps to conceal the catch. Officers and specially trained wildlife-detection dogs found lobsters inside duffel bags, backpacks, vehicles and a stroller.

Several of the seized lobsters were egg-bearing females. Officers returned all 34 lobsters to the ocean alive, CDFW said.

A female spiny lobster can produce between 50,000 and 800,000 eggs in a brood and carry them for about 10 weeks, according to the department. Wildlife officials said the loss of egg-bearing females can harm the fishery and affect people who legally catch lobster.

The six suspects were arrested on suspicion of violations including taking lobster out of season, exceeding daily bag limits, possessing undersized lobster, using hook and line to catch lobster and possessing more than three times the daily limit, officials said.

Violations can carry penalties of up to $1,000 each or as much as one year in jail, according to CDFW.