Husband and Wife Plead to Charges for Operating an Illegal Fish Business Out of Their Home

Sonoma County District Attorney Carla Rodriguez announced today that defendants Richard and Shalley Tran of Rohnert Park pleaded to two counts of illegally selling and exchanging fish for profit or personal gain.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) started their investigation in 2024 after receiving a tip the Trans were involved in the unlawful commercialization of sport-caught fish mainly caught off the Sonoma Coast. Surveillance revealed the Trans processed their catch at their home in Rohnert Park. Investigators then witnessed the Trans conducting illegal sales out of their residence, at other residences in Sonoma County, and at various locations throughout the Bay Area, including homes and businesses. Through their investigation, CDFW came to believe the Trans had been selling fish illegally for at least the past 10 years.

Elements of the Trans’ commercial fish operation that were illegal included using a fishing vessel that was not commercially registered, utilizing individuals that were not commercially licensed, failing to obtain a Fish Receiver’s License, and failing to “land” their fish. “Landing” occurs when the fish are brought ashore and starts the paper trail that allows CDFW to track the fish as they move through the market. By skipping the landing step, commercial fishers circumvent paying landing fees and can also avoid claiming their subsequent fish sales as income for tax purposes.  

District Attorney Carla Rodriguez stated, “Our Environmental and Consumer Law Division works with CDFW to ensure that individuals comply with commercial fishing regulations, which not only helps to preserve our natural resources but also promotes fair business practices.”

As part of the resolution of the case, the Trans forfeited $66,000 in cash that CDFW seized from their home, representing just a portion of the proceeds of their illegal fish business, along with fishing gear. They also will not be allowed to engage in any fishing activities for one year.