TIPS Call Leads To Fines
Two men have been fined a total of $3,150 for deer hunting-related offences following a call to the Ministry of Natural Resources’ TIPS line.
William Maes of Lisle pleaded guilty to hunting deer during closed season, trespassing to hunt, careless use of a firearm, transporting wildlife unlawfully killed, unlawfully hunting with a gun on Sunday and abandoning flesh suitable for food. He was fined $2,200. In addition, his hunting privileges have been suspended for one year, he must re-take and pass the Ontario hunter safety course before he can hunt again; his firearm was forfeited to the Crown.
Robert Young of Barrie pleaded guilty to trespassing to hunt, transporting wildlife unlawfully killed, abandoning flesh suitable for food and hunting deer during closed season. He was fined $950.
A call to the Ministry of Natural Resources’ TIPS line led to an investigation by conservation officers from the Midhurst District.
Court heard that Maes and Young were driving through Mulmur Township on February 14, 2010, when they spotted a deer close to the road. Maes turned the vehicle around, reached across Young, who was sitting in the passenger seat, and shot the deer with his rifle. The deer was approximately 18 metres off the road on property posted no trespassing. Young ran on to the property and retrieved the deer. The two men dumped the deer on a nearby side road.
Justice of the Peace Santino Spadafora heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, in Orangeville, on May 5, 2010.
To report a natural resources violation, call 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) toll-free any time or contact your local ministry officer during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Rick Williams, Midhurst District, 705-435-0959
Nick Reynolds, Midhurst District, 705-725-7507
