ORLANDO, Fla. -- A Florida Fish and Wildlife investigation found several Central Florida restaurants buying raw fish from unlicensed dealers and potentially putting customers' health at risk, according to a Local 6 News report.

Video

Donald Forbes Reports

After receiving an anonymous tip, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission sent undercover officers to several restaurants with a cooler of fish to see if anyone would buy the product.

During the investigation, Local 6 News filmed restaurant employees purchasing the fish from the backs of pickup trucks – no questions asked.

"At least one of the fish we sold we had used before," Florida Fish and Wildlife spokeswoman Joy Hill said. "We froze it, thawed it and presented it and believe me you wouldn't want to eat that fish."

"And they just bought it right up? Local 6 News reporter Donald Forbes asked.

"They bought it right up," Hill said. "They have no any idea how old these fish might be, where they came from or anything. How could they know our undercover officer pulled up with a cooler in the back of his truck and sold them fish?"

Florida Fish and Wildlife officials said that the fish was being used for sushi.

Two restaurants were cited after the investigation, Kiko's Japanesse Cuisine in Melbourne, Fla., and Hioki Japanese Restaurant in Palm Bay, Fla.

Both establishments were ticketed with unlawful purchase of saltwater products, which is a second-degree misdemeanor. Those charged face a $500 fine or 60 days in jail.

"Some people may say it's no big deal," Forbes said.

"Well, it's not big deal until somebody gets really sick or until bioterrorism is spread this way," Hill said. "It is a big deal."

"It surprises me and I'm disappointed that he's buying out of whoever's pickup truck and it scares me," restaurant customer Jim Dale said.

Local 6 News will talk with the ticketed restaurants during a report Tuesday at 11 p.m.