Mr. Ly in Maine deserves a bunch of praise for bothering to fight to get his koi back and fighting an expensive legal battle. I believe he expanded the hobby. He is certainly Maine's Koi Person of the Year!
Ornamental Fish Back On Display After Legal Fight
Web Editor: Rhonda Erskine, Online Content Producer
Last Updated: 2/28/2007 4:11:05 PM
After months of legal wrangling, the saga over a Freeport restaurant owner's koi fish ended Wednesday. Cuong Ly, the owner of the China Rose restaurant, celebrated the return of his decorative fish.
They've been held at a pet shop in Portsmouth, New Hampshire ever since Maine game wardens confiscated them last summer.
The koi, a type of carp, is considered a threat to native Maine fish. But in chinese culture, they bring good fortune. Ly had had the fish for 15 years.
Wardens charged Ly with importing invasive fish without a permit. He eventually pleaded guilty and paid a fine, but continued to press for a permit so he could keep the fish.
After spending about $20,000 on his legal battle, Ly says he was ready to give up his appeal, when he suddenly heard that the Maine attorney general had worked out a compromise.
"It come out of the blue. It was the greatest news. It happened at the right time, the Chinese New Year. I said wow, what a great present it brings to my business and family. Happy joy since then," said Ly.
Under the terms of the agreement, Ly has to keep the aquarium locked, and post a sign alerting the public to the dangers of importing koi fish into Maine.
NEWS CENTER & The Associated Press
http://www.wcsh6.com/news/article.aspx?storyid=53768
