Florida Business Owners Face Charges
Two Florida business owners are facing third-degree felony charges after allegedly spreading 1,500 mothballs on St. Pete Beach. This act was intended to prevent an endangered bird species from nesting there. If found guilty, they could face up to five years in prison, fines of up to $5,000, and up to five years of probation.
Discovery and Response
In late April, beachgoers spotted mothballs appearing on the white sands of St. Pete Beach in St. Petersburg, Florida. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) along with volunteers from the Audubon Society responded. They retrieved about 1,000 mothballs from the beach area near the Plaza Beach Hotel. Another 500 mothballs appeared overnight. The mothballs, containing pesticides, posed a threat to endangered shorebirds, known as black skimmers, who were attempting to nest in the area.
Investigation Details
FWC officials initiated an investigation, suspecting that the actions were targeted at the birds. The discovery of the mothballs sparked considerable public concern. Investigators, working with law enforcement, executed search warrants and analyzed large amounts of data. The investigation led to Christopher Monroe, the owner of Chris’s Beachside Bar, and Robert Czyszczon, the owner of the Plaza Beach Hotel.
“They’re the worst birds,” one of the men allegedly expressed in a text message.
Suspects and Evidence
Fearful of losing revenue, Monroe and Czyszczon allegedly developed a plan to deter the birds using mothballs. Video surveillance and purchase receipts showed Czyszczon buying a significant amount of mothballs from Walmart. Further examination of his phone uncovered incriminating text messages between him and Monroe that detailed their plan to prevent the birds from nesting. Cellphone tower data confirmed Monroe and Czyszczon were at the beach when the mothballs appeared.
Legal Repercussions
Both men were charged with illegal dumping, a third-degree felony, and misdemeanor charges related to the harassment of a state-listed imperiled species. They are currently out on bond. It’s estimated there are about 6,800 black skimmers in Florida, with several hundred residing on Pinellas County beaches.
Potential Risks and Impacts
Mothballs pose risks to both wildlife and humans due to their harmful vapors. According to Brett W. Bultemeier, UF/IFAS Pesticide Information Office director, pesticide labels are legally enforceable requirements. The use of mothballs delayed the birds’ nesting, which could endanger the young if a late hurricane season storm hits before they are ready to leave the nest.
An attorney for Czyszczon could not be reached for comment regarding the charges. Monroe also lacks representation according to court records.