MNR News Release
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A Mattawa man was fined $2,000 and received a one-year hunting licence suspension for trespassing and using a firearm carelessly to hunt deer.
Richard Murray pleaded guilty to unlawful hunting under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act and trespassing on private property.
The court ordered the cancellation and return of his hunting licences to the Ministry of Natural Resources. He must successfully complete a hunter safety course before re-applying for any licences, hunting, and/or participating in any hunting-related activities.
He is also prohibited from participating in hunting-related activities with a second party involved in this case. That individual was convicted on related hunting charges in September 2013.
Court heard that on October 1, 2012, Murray hunted and killed a deer with a crossbow on the front lawn of a private residence in the municipality of East Ferris without land owner consent, due care or attention, or reasonable consideration for people or property.
Justice of the Peace Ruby Beck heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, North Bay, on January 15, 2014.
Under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, a firearm includes air guns, bows and crossbows, along with traditional rifles and shotguns. The ministry encourages the public to report all unsafe and unethical hunting activities to help prevent and deter firearm-related accidents.
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)
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