Sounds like they were selling "Whitey's" which are recently molted crabs and haven't grown into their new shell. Crab will have a paper white belly.For example, will look like a #1 but will have meat of a #2 and you'll be paying for a #1. Look for "Rustys" which will be pre molt and packed with meat. Brownish/rusty colored belly with a more solid feel. Just remember-If it's bright white, it's light. If it's brown don't turn it down. Tip-if your buying crabs by the bushel check under the top layer for lights. Unfortunately some in the business top off bushel with rusty #1's and the rest are whites even though they look the same size for the same price.
Sounds like they sold ya Whities