Investigation results in poaching convictions

An investigation carried out by conservation officers with the Department of Natural Resources has lead to the conviction of two men from Amherst Cove for violations of provincial wildlife regulations.

Rodney Harris and Irving Power of Amherst Cove were each convicted at provincial court recently in Clarenville for possession of a firearm during closed season, hunting big game during closed season and illegal possession of big game.

Both men received fines totaling $2,100 for the offences. In addition, one moose, a 12- gauge shotgun, an axe and ammunition seized during the investigation were forfeited to the Crown. Both individuals are also prohibited from holding a big game licence for a period of five years.

The charges were laid against both individuals in June 2004 after an investigation by conservation officers from Southern Bay into reports of moose being hunted and killed during closed season. The two individuals in question were caught shortly after they were involved in the shooting of a moose near the community of Amherst Cove. Conservation officers on patrol heard shots being fired and apprehended the two men as they left the kill site and were returning to their vehicle.

Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-5282, (709) 685-4624

2005 04 15                         1:55 p.m.