Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents cited two Texas men for alleged oyster violations in Iberia Parish on May 1.

Agents cited Edward T. Ebanks, 55, of Texas City, and Denis Ianuza, 48, of Houston, for failing to complete trip tickets. Agents also cited Ebanks for violating oyster cargo vessel regulations.

Agents were on patrol when they observed a vessel collecting oysters from a private lease in the Gulf of Mexico off Marsh Island. The vessel was delivering the oysters to a larger cargo vessel.

Agents made contact with the vessel captains and found that Ebanks did not possess an oyster cargo vessel permit. Agents also learned that Ebanks and Ianuza failed to complete trip tickets when transferring the oysters from the smaller vessel to the cargo vessel.

Agents seized and returned 150 sacks of oysters to the water where they were harvested.

Violating oyster cargo vessel regulations brings a $400 to $950 fine and up to 120 days in jail. Failing to complete trip tickets carries a $250 to $500 fine and up to 90 days in jail.

Agents participating in the case are Sgt. Justin Sonnier, Sgt. Steve Vidrine, Sgt. Cullom Schexnyder, Corporal Matthew Perkins, Corporal Katie Mathias, Corporal Jacob Cramer and Senior Agent Jude Duhon.