ST. PETE BEACH, Fla. — Two St. Petersburg men have been arrested following an extensive investigation into the illegal placement of mothballs in an area where threatened and endangered shorebirds were actively nesting on St. Pete Beach, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
On July 29, FWC officers arrested Christopher S. Monroe, 52, and Robert C. Czyszczon, 47, both of St. Petersburg. The pair are charged with felony littering for commercial purposes and misdemeanor attempted take of threatened shorebird species.
The investigation began on April 20 after FWC officers responded to reports of mothballs scattered on St. Pete Beach behind the Plaza Beach Hotel. Officers worked alongside volunteers from the Audubon Society and concerned beachgoers to remove the mothballs, which officials said posed significant risks to both wildlife and the public. The following day, officers received a second report of additional mothballs scattered in the same location.
According to FWC, mothballs are intended for indoor use only and contain chemicals that can be toxic to humans, birds, and other wildlife. When placed on beaches, the chemicals can also be blown into nearby waters, creating additional hazards for marine life and contaminating the coastal environment.
Investigators allege the mothballs were placed behind the Plaza Beach Hotel, where threatened and endangered shorebirds were nesting. Robert C. Czyszczon owns the Plaza Beach Hotel, while Christopher S. Monroe owns and manages Chris’ Beachside Bar, which operates on the hotel property.
FWC investigators conducted an extensive investigation to identify Monroe and Czyszczon as the individuals responsible. The investigation included executing multiple search warrants, conducting forensic examinations of electronic devices and digital evidence, reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing numerous witnesses, collecting and analyzing physical evidence, and coordinating with partner agencies to build the case.
“Our officers remained committed to uncovering the facts and ensuring those responsible were held accountable,” said Major Evan Laskowski, FWC Southwest Regional Commander. “The illegal use of chemicals that can harm wildlife has no place on Florida’s beaches, especially in areas where threatened and endangered shorebirds depend on safe nesting habitat. This case demonstrates our commitment to protecting Florida’s natural resources through thorough investigations and strong partnerships.”
FWC said Florida’s beaches provide critical habitat for numerous imperiled species, including beach-nesting birds. During nesting season, these birds face increased challenges, and any activity that contaminates or disturbs nesting or foraging habitat can have serious consequences for their survival and recovery.
The FWC Division of Law Enforcement also thanked its Habitat and Species Conservation staff for providing technical expertise throughout the investigation, as well as the Pinellas County State Attorney’s Office for its partnership and support in bringing the case forward.
The investigation has concluded with the arrests, and both defendants will face the charges in court.
No booking photos are available to IONTB at this time.