Eight Vietnamese fishermen who were found poaching in the waters of Kayangel received a one-year suspended jail sentence as part of their plea agreement.
The fishermen were originally facing several criminal charges including aiding and abetting illegal fishing without a permit, aiding and abetting attempted illegal fishing without a permit and conspiracy to commit unlawful acts.
However under the plea agreement, the defendants all entered a guilty plea to aiding and abetting illegal fishing without a permit with all other charges dismissed.
The agreement also stipulates that the defendants depart Palau as soon as possible.
The fishermen remain housed at the Catholic Church Rectory following their capture in March of this year.
The sentencing hearing was presided by Chief Justice Arthur Ngiraklsong on April 22, 2014.