Justice and Public Safety
September 11, 2015
Man Convicted for Offences Related to Improper Use of Firearm
An investigation last year by Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Officers has resulted in an individual being convicted of violations of the Wildlife Regulations related to the improper use of a firearm.
The conviction stems from an investigation conducted on October 23, 2014, after officers on patrol discovered a dead moose lying in the middle of Southwest River Resource Road near Port Blandford. Upon examination, it was determined that the animal had been illegally shot and the officers decided to set up surveillance. As a result of the incident, Paul Howell of Badger�s Quay was charged with a number of offences when he showed up at the scene.
In Provincial Court in Clarenville on September 4, 2015, Mr. Howell was convicted of two offences. For shooting from a roadway, he received a $1,000 fine and is prohibited from applying for a big game licence for five years. For discharging a firearm without exercising reasonable care of others, he was fined $250. The moose, a .270 calibre rifle with scope, ammunition, his big game licence and tags were all forfeited to the Crown.
With the big game hunting season upon us, the Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Division is encouraging the public to follow the regulations related to big game hunting including the proper storage, transport and use of firearms.
The public can play a significant role in assisting officers in protecting the province's natural resources and in ensuring the safety of everyone enjoying outdoor activities 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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Media contact:
Luke Joyce
Director of Communications
Department of Justice and Public Safety
709-729-6985, 725-4165
lukejoyce@gov.nl.ca
2015 09 11 2:10 p.m.