Natural Resources
December 6, 2007

Tip from Public Leads to Wildlife Convictions

An investigation by conservation officers with the Department of Natural Resources, based on a tip from the public, has led to the conviction of two individuals in relation to illegal hunting activity on the Bonavista Peninsula.

On November 27, Larry G. Little of Bonavista was convicted in Provincial Court at Clarenville for three offences under the provincial Wildlife Act. The offences included hunting big game out of season, hunting big game at night and discharging a firearm from a roadway.

In the spring of 2005, conservation officers set up a surveillance operation into the killing of moose out of season at various locations on the Bonavista Peninsula, based on information provided by concerned members of the public.

Mr. Little was fined $4,500 and is prohibited from holding a big game license for five years. He also forfeited one shot gun, slugs, spotting lights, a knife, an axe and a saw to the Crown.

Mr. Little is the second person to be convicted of charges related to this incident. In July 2006, another male resident of Bonavista was convicted of charges related to hunting out of season and hunting at night. He was fined $2,000 and was prohibited from holding a big game license for five years.

To report suspected illegal activity, submit a complaint online at www.gov.nl.ca/forestry/contact/violation.htm or phone Crime Stoppers at 1-800-363-TIPS (8477).

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