S.F. vendor busted for 2,000 lbs. of shark fins

[Jesus Malverde]

State authorities Friday announced the seizure of more than 2,000 pounds of shark fins from a San Francisco seafood distributor in what is the first major bust under a new California law barring the sale of the traditional Chinese delicacy.

Michael Kwong, 42, owner of Kwong Yip Inc. in the South of Market neighborhood, was cited Jan. 29 for being in violation of the July 1 ban after investigators found his business full of shark fins ready for sale, officials said.

Investigators collected 2,138 pounds of shark, officials said, which they continue to analyze to confirm the body part and species of fish.

"It's probably thousands of sharks," said Lt. Patrick Foy of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

California lawmakers passed the prohibition on the possession and sale of shark fins in 2011, but the law was phased into full effect only last year. Violation of the law is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.

Read More: http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/S-F-vendor-busted-for-2-000-lbs-of-shark-fins-5236910.php

[progressoid]

1. six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000?

I got a better place for him...