ST. PETE BEACH, Fla. — Two beachfront business owners have been arrested following an investigation into more than 1,500 mothballs allegedly scattered near an area where protected black skimmers were preparing to nest.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission arrested Robert Czyszczon, 47, and Christopher Monroe, 52, on July 29. Each faces one felony count of commercial littering and a misdemeanor count of attempted take of a state-listed imperiled species by harassment. The charges are allegations, and neither man has been convicted.
Czyszczon owns the Plaza Beach Hotel, while Monroe owns and manages Chris’ Beachside Bar on the hotel property, according to investigators.
More Than 1,500 Mothballs Found on St. Pete Beach
FWC investigators received a report on April 20 that approximately 1,000 mothballs had been spread across the beach behind the Plaza Beach Hotel. Officials said another 500 mothballs were discovered in the same area the following day.
The mothballs were allegedly placed in an area where black skimmers were beginning to establish a nesting colony. Wildlife officials said investigators believe the material was intended to prevent the birds from nesting near the businesses.
Mothballs are pesticides designed for use inside tightly sealed containers. When used outdoors, their chemical vapors can expose people and animals and contaminate soil, plants and water. The National Pesticide Information Center states that mothballs are not intended to be used as wildlife repellents.
Investigators Cite Video, Receipts and Cellphone Data
Investigators said surveillance footage and receipts from a nearby Walmart indicated that Czyszczon purchased a large quantity of mothballs one day before they were first found on the beach.
FWC officials also cited cellphone-tower data that allegedly placed both men near the beach on the nights the mothballs were distributed. Investigators said text messages between the men discussed the nesting birds, protective fencing and concerns that the birds could affect business revenue.
Black Skimmers Are Threatened in Florida
Black skimmers are classified as a state-designated threatened species in Florida. The birds nest in coastal habitats including beaches, sandbars and estuaries, where their nesting areas are often surrounded by temporary fencing to reduce human disturbance.
FWC officials said disturbing the birds can interfere with nesting and reduce their ability to successfully raise chicks.
The arrests are the latest development in a case that began in April, when residents and wildlife volunteers helped remove hundreds of mothballs from the beach before the black skimmers’ nesting season.