Evergreen Reporter

A federal jury has found Don Michael Rynn, a 61-year-old fisherman from Augustine, Florida, guilty of making false statements on trip reports and lying to federal agents. The conviction follows a three-day trial in Charleston, South Carolina.

Rynn managed several commercial fishing vessels in McClellanville, including the Maximum Retriever and Crystal C. On March 21, 2023, the Maximum Retriever embarked on a fishing trip captained by Rynn's son. Upon return on March 27, the vessel had nearly triple the allowed catch of Snowy Grouper and one and a half times the allowable Grey Tilefish.

The prosecution presented evidence that Rynn directed crew members to transfer excess fish from the Maximum Retriever to the Crystal C and his truck for transport to another seafood dealer. Rynn then filed a report showing only catches within legal limits while attributing extra fish to the Crystal C.

Following a tip received by SCDNR about possible overfishing, an investigation was launched. During an interview with NOAA agents on October 30, 2023, Rynn falsely claimed that contamination from a fuel spill led him to dispose of the fish.

Acting U.S. Attorney Brook B. Andrews emphasized accountability for those violating federal regulations: "Those who attempt to circumvent federal fishing regulations and deceive law enforcement will be held accountable."

NOAA's Paige Casey highlighted cooperation among agencies: “The prosecution of this case and the jury’s verdict emphasizes the importance of holding violators accountable...”

Colonel Chisholm Frampton of SCDNR expressed gratitude for collaborative efforts: “Together, we have taken a stand against a blatant disregard for the law...”

Rynn faces up to five years in prison along with fines up to $250,000. Sentencing will be determined by United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel after reviewing a sentencing report.

The case was investigated by multiple agencies including NOAA and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Winston Holliday and Amy Bower.