LIVE$88,000 Fine for Seashell Collecting? California Mom's Bizarre Penalty Sparks Outrage!"_*
A California mother is facing a staggering $88,000 fine after her children collected 72 clams they mistook for seashells during a family beach trip. The unsuspecting kids had gathered the clams in a bucket, unaware that their innocent activity would result in a hefty penalty.
The mother, who wishes to remain anonymous, explained that her children were simply excited to collect what they thought were seashells. "My kids, they thought they were collecting seashells, but they were actually collecting clams, 72 to be exact," she said. "We had no idea it was illegal or that it would result in such a huge fine."
The fine was issued by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, which regulates the state's marine resources. The agency considers the clams to be a protected species, and removing them from their habitat can disrupt the ecosystem.
The mother is appealing the fine, arguing that her children's actions were unintentional and that the penalty is excessive. The incident serves as a reminder for beachgoers to be aware of environmental regulations and to educate themselves about the marine life they encounter.