07/24/2026
***PLEASE NOTE: This case has been turned over to Massachusetts Environmental Police who have jurisdiction over any action taken against involved parties. Officer Lucier was acting in his capacity as a Natural Resource Officer to report, confiscate and investigate. He will be assisting their agency with the case. Any questions or concerns should be directed to the Massachusetts Environmental Police. THANK YOU***
On July 24, 2026, while conducting a proactive shellfish enforcement patrol at Callie’s Beach, Mashpee Natural Resources Officer C. Lucier made an outstanding enforcement case after observing suspicious activity involving a group of recreational anglers leaving the shoreline with a heavily loaded cooler.
Trusting his instincts, Officer Lucier initiated an investigation that uncovered a significant number of fish that were both undersized and in excess of Massachusetts recreational fishing regulations. After consulting with the Massachusetts Environmental Police, he conducted a thorough inspection and count of the catch.
Officer Lucier’s investigation revealed 66 illegally possessed black sea bass that were undersized and/or over the legal possession limit, along with 43 illegally possessed scup, 20 of which were undersized. In accordance with the direction of the Massachusetts Environmental Police, all illegally possessed fish were seized, while the individuals were permitted to retain only the fish they were legally entitled to possess. The seized fish were transported to our office and turned over to the Massachusetts Environmental Police for follow-up enforcement action.
This case is a direct result of Officer Lucier’s vigilance, initiative, and proactive patrol efforts. His attention to detail resulted in the seizure of 109 illegally possessed fish and held those responsible accountable for violating Massachusetts recreational fishing regulations.
Outstanding work by Officer Lucier and another excellent example of why proactive enforcement matters. We also thank the Massachusetts Environmental Police for their continued partnership. Recreational fishing regulations—including size limits, possession limits, and licensing requirements—exist to protect our fisheries and ensure these resources remain healthy and sustainable for generations to come.
