The National Association for Amateur Radio reports that on Tue., March 6 the Federal Communications Commission reduced the fine against Michael Perry of Cross City, Florida from $10,000 to $450 for illegally operating a CB radio. From the FCC's forfeiture order:

“Agents from the Tampa Office determined that Mr. Perry operated a non-certified CB transmitter and two linear amplifiers on CB channel 28 (on frequency 27.2850 MHz) on March 31, 2011. In view of the record evidence, the NAL proposed a $10,000 forfeiture against Mr Perry for violation of Section 301 of the Act and Sections 95.409 and 95.411 of the Rules. Mr Perry submitted a response to the NAL, denying that he operated the non-certified CB transmitter and amplifiers, and requesting cancellation or reduction of the forfeiture based on his inability to pay.”

The fine seems high, as the FCC's order does not mention a back story of repeated piracy. Perry's plea was successful, and he has until April 5 to pay the $450 fine. The ARRL prints the full order.