Guam Department of Agriculture Conservation Officers arrested a 46-year-old man earlier this month for reckless driving and disorderly conduct inside the Achang “Reef Flats” Marine Preserve Area in Malesso’, officials announced Tuesday.
According to the Department of Agriculture, officers from its Conservation Law Enforcement Division, assisted by Civilian Volunteer Conservation Officer Reservists, observed Franklin F. Topasna operating a vehicle at a high rate of speed in a reckless manner on Sept. 1. After initiating a traffic stop, officers arrested Topasna for reckless driving and disorderly conduct.
A records check revealed Topasna also had an active bench warrant, leading to his arrest on an Execution of Warrant. The Department of Agriculture said the arrest underscores the importance of ongoing patrols in Marine Preserve Areas to protect fish habitats and natural resources.
Officials encouraged residents to report threats to Guam’s natural resources to the Conservation Law Enforcement Division at conservation@doag.guam.gov
or by calling 864-TOKA (8652). The department continues regular patrols of protected areas to ensure public safety and environmental conservation.