Md. Authorities Crack Down on Oyster Violations

A Maryland waterman has been charged with stealing oysters twice in one week and had his license suspended for the season as the state cracks down on oyster violations.

It's the first time the Department of Natural Resources has used the penalty. Police also are using new tools, such as radar and infrared cameras to monitor commercial activity in the Chesapeake Bay.

William Beck of Rock Hall had his license suspended Friday after numerous poaching convictions in the past. He's charged with harvesting oysters in the middle of the night Dec. 26 and with dredging seven bushels of oysters from a prohibited area Jan. 1.

Police say he also failed to submit monthly reports.

The O'Malley administration is pushing a new oyster restoration plan that includes expanded oyster sanctuaries.