PORTLAND — The company involved in a Depoe Bay fishing license scam has been sentenced to refund customers and pay state agencies almost $100,000 in restitution.
The Oregonian reported that Tradewinds of Depoe Bay, Inc. pleaded guilty to felony racketeering. Owners Timothy and Julie Harmon pleaded guilty alongside their daughter, Eva, to violating a state wildlife law.
An Oregon State Police news release says the Harmons have agreed to sell the company and permanently leave Oregon’s fishing charter industry.
Both parents have to pay $3,500 in court fines. Their daughter is required to pay $3,000.
Investigators found the company pocketed money from selling thousands of fishing licenses at $16.75 each.
Customers who were given receipts instead of a daily angling license can contact the Lincoln County District Attorney Victim’s Assistance Department.
