Posted by Chris on April 20, 2002 at 02:22:30:
From the April 12, 2002 independent Coast Observer
Couple Netted in Sting Fined $42,000 for Selling Abalone
Yong Hoe Kim, 51, and Hyon Suk Kim, 45, both of San Francisco, admitted their role in an abalone sales case in Mendocino Superior Court.
After their guilty plea on March 15, Judge Henry Nelson ordered the couple to probation on the condition that they pay $42,750 in fines and penalties, perform 500 hours of community service, and forfeit a Toyota 4-runner.
In addition, Nelson imposed a lifetime suspension of fishing privileges.
The court also suspended an additional fine of $42,750 contingent upon successful completion of probation.
The Kims were the last of about 20 individuals charged as the result of a lengthy investigation conducted by the Department of Fish and Game of an organization known as the Korean Dive Club.
The other defendants have all pled guilty to various offenses from punch card violations and overlimit, to the most serious offenses involving the sale of abalone.
In the other matters, fines up to $10,000 were imposed, as well as the forfeiture of dive gear, and a boat valued at $15,000.