Last Saturday, officers from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) apprehended four Cuban men accused of hunting on private land in Charlotte County without the owner's approval.
The arrest affidavit issued by the FWC revealed that the suspects had repeatedly hunted on the same private property located on Bermont Road, without the owner's consent.
Owned by Evans Properties Inc., the property is clearly marked with several "No Trespassing" signs throughout.
The FWC stated that several individuals climbed a fence and entered the land, traversing a cow field. When they noticed the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office surveilling the area with a drone, they attempted to conceal their firearms.
Despite their efforts, a K-9 unit successfully uncovered two shotguns and a rifle hidden in the dense vegetation, according to local media reports.
The four suspects were taken to the Charlotte County Jail and face third-degree felony charges for trespassing with a dangerous weapon.
The FWC identified the arrestees as:
- Dayner Cordero González, 31 years old.
- Yurislandy Castro Márquez, 32 years old.
- Juan Pablo Díaz Montesino, 23 years old.
- Yuriel Díaz Barrios, 41 years old.
Additionally, the FWC reported that two of the suspects have been referred to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), as the affidavit notes they are Cuban nationals.
"I'm proud of the excellent work by Officers García and Hazelwood, who collaborated with a local landowner to address a serious trespassing issue," stated Major Evan Laskowski, the FWC's southwest regional commander.
"And I remain impressed with our K-9 team's work: once again, K-9 Jenny showcased her skill by locating the firearms," he added.
Charlotte County resident Mark Erickson described the area as a region of "about 25,000 acres back there, with very few people." He mentioned that hunting is common in the region:
"It happens all the time around here. Just last Thursday, I had to escort four guys off my property. They were coming up my path, heading towards the back of the property."
Erickson speculated the men might have been hunting deer, hogs, or turkeys, adding:
"Prices at stores are sky-high. So, many people are turning to more affordable ways to feed their families."
The FWC emphasized its commitment to addressing violations against wildlife and private property, reiterating its dedication to safeguarding Florida residents, natural resources, and properties.
Anyone witnessing illegal hunting or trespassing activities is encouraged to report it to the FWC's wildlife alert hotline by calling 888-404-FWCC (3922).
Key Details on Charlotte County Trespassing Incident
What charges are the Cuban men facing?
The men face third-degree felony charges for trespassing with a dangerous weapon.
How were the firearms discovered?
A K-9 unit found the firearms hidden in dense vegetation after the suspects tried to hide them.
Who is the owner of the property where the hunting occurred?
The property is owned by Evans Properties Inc.