Multiple investigations conducted during fall 2022 by Resource Enforcement Officers with the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture into illegal hunting related activity has resulted in several convictions and forfeitures of property to the Crown.

On January 11, 2023, at Provincial Court in Grand Bank, Carl Dominix of Harbour Mille plead guilty to hunting big game without a licence. He was fined $1,000, is prohibited from applying for a big game licence for a period of five years, and a .308 rifle was forfeited to the Crown.

On January 24, 2023 at Provincial Court in Gander, Brittany Knee of Embree plead guilty to discharging a firearm within 300 meters of a dwelling and illegal possession of big game, and was fined $1,200. Michael Hutchings of Lewisporte plead guilty to illegal possession of big game and was fined $1,000. Both individuals are also prohibited from applying for a big game licence for a period of five years.

On March 23, 2023 at Provincial Court in Clarenville, Peter Russell of Conception Bay South plead guilty to hunting big game without a licence, fined $500 and prohibited from applying for a big game licence for a period of five years. Paul Russell of Mount Pearl plead guilty to permitting another person to use his licence and was fined $500. A .30-06 rifle was also forfeited to the Crown.

On April 3, 2023 at Provincial Court in St. John’s, Blaine McGrath and Raymond O’Brien of Torbay, and Ian Story of Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s, plead guilty to the illegal possession of big game and each were fined $1,000 and prohibited from applying for a big game licence for a period of five years. Mr. McGrath was also fined $100 for the illegal possession of a firearm. An off-road vehicle, cart and firearm seized during the investigation were also forfeited to the Crown.

The public are encouraged to report suspected illegal hunting activity, as information provided by the public plays a significant role in assisting investigations being conducted by Resource Enforcement Officers.

The public can report suspicious activity anonymously at any time, by calling 1-877-820-0999 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous reports can also be submitted online at www.nlcrimestoppers.com or www.stoppoaching.ca.

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