A Rohnert Park couple has admitted to running an illegal fishing business from their home for over a decade, according to prosecutors. Richard and Shalley Tran were found to be involved in the unlawful commercialization of sport-caught fish along the Sonoma Coast. As part of the case resolution, the Trans forfeited $66,000 in cash, seized by state wildlife officials from their home, along with fishing gear. Prosecutors revealed that this amount was just a fraction of the profits the Trans made from their fishing activities. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife received a tip and launched an investigation last year, which revealed that the Trans processed their catch at their home in Rohnert Park. Investigators witnessed the Trans conducting illegal sales from their residence, as well as other locations in Sonoma County and the Bay Area. The illegal elements of the Trans' commercial fish operation included using an unregistered fishing boat, failing to obtain a fish receiver's license, and not 'landing' their fish. 'Landing' refers to the process of bringing fish ashore with a paper trail that allows the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to track the fish as they move through the market. District Attorney Carla Rodriguez emphasized the importance of compliance with commercial fishing regulations, stating that it helps preserve natural resources and promotes fair business practices.
