S. Lane Tucker, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney's Office District of Alaska
A Kodiak fisherman has been sentenced to one year in prison for orchestrating the illegal transport of crab from Alaska to Washington, a violation of the Lacey Act. Corey Potter, 64, was also given two years of supervised release and a worldwide commercial fishing ban during this period.
In early 2024, Potter owned and operated two crab catcher vessels that harvested Tanner and golden king crab in Southeast Alaska. His co-defendants, Kyle Potter, 30, and Justin Welch, 34, captained these vessels. They transported their catch to Seattle without landing at an Alaskan port or reporting the harvest on a fish ticket as required by state law.
The illegal operation involved over 4,200 pounds of live Tanner crab and more than 2,900 pounds of live golden king crab. Some Tanner crabs were infected with Bitter Crab Syndrome (BCS), which poses a threat to crustaceans. Despite concerns from fellow fishermen about BCS's impact on the industry, Corey Potter proceeded with his plan.
During transit to Washington, approximately 42% of the king crab died. The contaminated Tanner crabs were handed over to Washington authorities for disposal. Law enforcement later searched Welch’s vessel and discovered deleted text messages between him and the Potters detailing plans for selling the crabs.
On February 7, 2025, Corey Potter pleaded guilty to two felony counts under the Lacey Act. "Crabbing is a vital component of Alaska’s fishing industry," said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska. "Mr. Potter blatantly disregarded state and federal fishing laws."
Benjamin Cheeseman from NOAA emphasized that "this sentencing serves as a clear reminder that there are serious consequences for those who break the rules." Co-defendant Kyle Potter received five years’ probation with similar restrictions and fines; Welch was sentenced to three years' probation with additional penalties.
NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement led the investigation while Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Brickey prosecuted.
