Shark "Sightings" a Hoax

The excitement (or anxiety, depending on your perspective) stirred up late last week by alleged sightings of a monster shark, were the result of lies perpetrated by a 60-year-old man. His motive unknown, Michael Lopenzo warned people to get out of the water at State Beach, claiming to have spotted two 22-foot sharks while on a fishing boat.
Officials closed South and State Beach as a precaution and Coast Guard helicopters surveyed the waters of the popular bathing beaches. When questioned, Lopenzo gave misinformation about the fishing boat and owner - providing made-up names. The faked sighting prompted others to report sightings - which is not uncommon. One recreational fisherman I spoke to mentioned that he was convinced momentarily that a large seal he spotted at the first bridge was a shark fin.
The beaches were reopened Friday, and packed with sunbathers (and swimmers) all weekend. What do you think should be the consequences for someone perpetrating this kind of hoax? Please comment.