Angler Fined for Failing to Stop for Fisheries Inspection
A Sudbury resident has been fined $2,000 for failing to stop for conservation officers and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).
Kenneth M. Taipalus was fined under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act for not obeying a hand signal stop request by a conservation officer while operating his motorized snowvehicle.
Court heard that on March 24, 2009, near the town of Missinabie on Dog Lake, Taipalus was returning to a camp when conservation officers and the OPP attempted to stop him to conduct a fisheries inspection. Taipalus failed to immediately stop on several occasions, and was followed for more than 300 metres by two OPP officers on snowmobiles with flashing red lights engaged.
In addition to the $2,000 fine, Taipalus was also charged by the OPP for impaired operation of a motorized vehicle, dangerous driving and other related offences.
Justice of the Peace Alex Spence heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Chapleau, on January 20, 2010.
The Ministry of Natural Resources reminds the public that a conservation officer has the right to stop a vehicle, boat or aircraft to conduct inspections under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act. Once the signal is given, the operator must stop immediately. Stop signals used by conservation officers include intermittent flashes of red light for vehicles, intermittent flashes of blue light for boats and the use of hand signals for both vehicles and boats.
To report a natural resources violation, call 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) toll-free any time or contact your local ministry office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Richard Lepage, Chapleau District, 705-864-3140
Tim Caddel, Chapleau District, 705-864-3117
