Florida Fisherman's $500,000 "Catch" Could Put Him Behind Bars for Life

This illegal catch off the Gulf of Mexico in January 2016 could put this Florida commercial fisherman in jail for a very long time.

Thomas Breeding, a commercial fisherman, was out plying his trade in the Gulf of Mexico in January 2016 when he found a large package of 45 pounds of cocaine. The Florida resident then made the decision to try to sell the drugs, conspiring with four other people.

With an estimated street value between $500,000 and $620,000, Breeding engaged the four others to sell the cocaine while he would take a cut. Investigators became aware of the trafficking plans and all five were charged with conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.

Breeding, as part of the investigation, was also found with a gun in his vehicle, and charged with illegal transportation of a firearm on top of the drug charges.

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He has now taken the time to warn others of the serious repercussions of not doing the right thing and turning the narcotics in to police:

I would like to let the public know the dangers and what not to do if this situation comes about. This changed my life and way of thinking and also made me aware of some of the dangers that can be found off shore.

Mr. Breeding is now looking at a potential fine of $4.25 million dollars and a maximum sentence of life in prison. With his other four co-defendants Breeding has pleaded guilty to the drug charges.

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