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Radio pirate temporarily pulls plug

By CHASE SQUIRES
Published April 6, 2005

ST. PETERSBURG - The pirate radio broadcaster calling himself Bob Noxious is temporarily off the air, claiming he had to shut down after federal agents banged on his apartment door last week and began asking neighbors about his on-air antics.

Noxious (not his real name), has been running an illegal station since January with a range extending about 5 miles from downtown St. Petersburg on 99.9 FM. He said Tuesday that he did not open his door when Federal Communications Commission agents came to his apartment at about noon Friday. He said he was not served with papers or formally notified of any pending charges, but said the agents identified themselves to neighbors. Broadcasting without a license is a federal and state crime.

An FCC spokeswoman declined to comment.

Noxious said rather than risk his equipment to federal seizure, he has hidden it, vowing to return to the airwaves in about two weeks.

A fundraising benefit for Noxious' Pirate Radio Network is set for 3-7 p.m. April 24 at the Globe Coffee Lounge, 532 First Ave. N., St. Petersburg.

Globe owner JoEllen Schilke, who hosts an arts show on community radio station WMNF-88.5 FM, said she supports Noxious' right to broadcast.

"The people own the airwaves, that's ours," she said. "The government controls it, and then gives it away to corporations."

The bands Fall on Purpose, Can't Do It, Car Bomb Driver, Burning Tree and Ryan Yoho are slated to perform. Donations will be collected during the show.

[Last modified April 6, 2005, 01:42:42]