Justice and Public Safety
February 5, 2016

Salmon Poaching Incidents Lead to Significant Fines

Investigations by Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Officers in the central region of the island have resulted in two recent convictions related to illegal salmon fishing.

On January 18 at Provincial Court in Gander, Anthony Melendy of Lumsden was fined $2,500 for illegal possession of Atlantic salmon caught in contravention of the Fisheries Act, and $500 for obstructing a peace officer. Thirteen salmon were forfeited to the Crown and Mr. Melendy was also prohibited from being on or near inland waters for two years. The charges and convictions came as the result of an investigation conducted by officers on July 7, 2015.

On January 19, also at Provincial Court in Gander, Robert Brown of Appleton was sentenced and fined $3,000 for netting Atlantic salmon in inland waters and $1,000 for illegal possession of Atlantic salmon. Mr. Brown was also convicted of breaching probation and fined $500. All items seized including 11 Atlantic salmon, a canoe, an 85-foot long net and a black ski mask were forfeited. Mr. Brown was also prohibited from being on or near inland waters for four years with the exception of travelling directly to his cabin.

The public plays a significant role in assisting officers in protecting the province's natural resources by reporting any suspicious activity. This can be done anonymously and toll-free at any time of the day, by calling 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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2016 02 05                              4:10 p.m.