A recent investigation by officers with the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture’s Resource Enforcement Division has resulted in charges against an individual for several violations of the Wild Life Act.

On October 30, 2023, resource enforcement officers from the Clarenville detachment initiated an investigation after receiving information regarding suspected illegal hunting activity in the area of Old Mill Road in Goobies.

As a result of the investigation, an individual was identified and charged with:

• Failure to affix or lock the tag on a big game animal;
• Discharging a firearm within 300 meters of a dwelling;
• Discharging a firearm on or across a public road; and
• Possession of a big game animal not taken in accordance with Regulations.

The accused is scheduled to appear in Provincial Court on January 18, 2024 to face the charges. Penalties associated with these offences include a fine up to $5,000, up to six months in prison and a prohibition from holding a moose or caribou licence for a period of five years.

The public is reminded it is an offence under the Wild Life Act to discharge a firearm without exercising reasonable care for the safety of others.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to protecting the province’s wildlife resources and ensuring they are sustainably managed for the enjoyment and benefit for all residents of the province.

The public are encouraged to report suspected illegal hunting activity, as this information plays a significant role in assisting investigations being conducted by resource enforcement officers.

The public can report suspicious activity anonymously by calling 1-800-820-0990 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous reports can also be submitted online at www.nlcrimestoppers.com or www.stoppoaching.ca.

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