The FCC has levied a $2.39 million fine against Fabrice Polynice, citing the illegal operation of his pirate station “Radio Touche Douce” on 90.1 MHz in North Miami.
The commission alleges that the station operated from February 5 to March 5, 2023.
“Operating an unauthorized, or pirate, radio station is illegal under the Communications Act and undermines our mission to manage the radio spectrum,” the FCC stated. “Such illegal operations pose a danger to the public because they interfere with licensed stations that deliver critical information, including Emergency Alert System messages.”
Polynice is a repeat offender, having previously been fined in 2013 and 2018. Those fines remain unpaid.
The Commission has determined that Polynice intentionally participated in illegal pirate radio activities. Even in light of a ten-year history of previous violations and enforcement measures. Enforcement included a seizure of his equipment by U.S. Marshals.
The Commission observed that Polynice acknowledged the facts of the case but sought a lesser penalty. He cited financial difficulties as his reason for an appeal. Polynice is required to pay the forfeiture within 30 days of the order’s release, or risk facing additional enforcement measures from the U.S. Department of Justice.
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