Maryland Hunter Convicted For Leaving Bear Meat To Spoil
A Maryland man was fined for shooting and leaving a bear to spoil during the 2009 bear hunting season.
George Martin of Pasadena, Maryland, pleaded guilty and was fined $1,000 for leaving bear meat to spoil.
The court heard that in September 2009, Ministry of Natural Resources conservation officers conducted an investigation involving two bear carcasses that were left in the Thorburn Township area, about 35 kilometres northwest of Timmins. The officers found that the bear carcasses were dragged into the woods with an all-terrain vehicle after two hunters had skinned the animals for their hides. The hides were exported back to Maryland with the hunters.
Conservation officers obtained provincial wildlife export documents, and officials from the Maryland Natural Resources Police tracked down and interviewed the hunters. Both men were charged for leaving bear meat to spoil. The charge against the second hunter has been set over to November for resolution.
Justice of the Peace Dolores Boyuk heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Timmins, on September 2, 2010.
The ministry reminds hunters that if they harvest a game animal it is an offence to leave the flesh to spoil. If hunters do not wish to keep the meat, it can be donated.
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).
Luke Lizotte, Timmins District, 705-235-1352
James Abbott, Timmins District, 705-235-1351
