Justice
July 4, 2014

Investigations Lead to More Charges for Salmon Poaching

As a result of three separate investigations earlier this week, officers with the Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Division have charged four individuals with various offences related to illegally fishing salmon. Of note is the fact that two of the investigations were the direct result of anonymous tips provided by concerned residents.

On June 30, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement officers from the Gander detachment received a tip that a salmon net was illegally set in a tributary of the Gander River known as Salmon Brook. The officers investigated and through surveillance were able to record two individuals retrieving the net and the salmon. Later the following day, the two men were identified and charged with illegally netting salmon in inland waters and illegal possession of salmon.

Also on June 30, while officers from the Fish and Wildlife Enforcement detachment in Roddickton were conducting routine patrols on the Northern Peninsula, a net was located which had been illegally set in coastal waters to intercept migrating salmon. Early the following morning, officers were successful in apprehending one male adult who was charged with illegally netting Atlantic salmon in coastal waters and for illegal possession of salmon. As a result of this incident, a boat, a net and 11 Atlantic salmon were seized.

On July 1, the Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Division detachment in Whitbourne received an anonymous tip that an individual was attempting to jig salmon in a closed area of the Northeast Placentia River. An officer was immediately dispatched to the area and apprehended the male adult suspect who was charged with several offences. Equipment used in the incident was seized and he is expected to make an appearance in Provincial Court at a later date.

The Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Division wishes to remind would-be poachers that officers are committed to apprehending those who violate the law and who threaten Newfoundland and Labrador’s world-class salmon and trout populations. Throughout the summer officers will continue to travel throughout all regions of the province to enforce legislation that protects fish stocks.

As proven with two of the investigations outlined here, the public plays a significant role in catching poachers and is encouraged to report any suspicious activity. This can be done anonymously and toll-free at any time of the day, by calling the Fish and Wild Enforcement Division at 1-877-820-0999, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous online reports can also be submitted at www.stoppoaching.ca or www.nlcrimestoppers.com .

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Media contact:
Luke Joyce
Director of Communications
Department of Justice
709-729-6985, 725-4165
lukejoyce@gov.nl.ca

2014 07 04                                        10:15 a.m.