Powassan men fined for illegal deer hunt and tag violation

MNR News Release

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Two Powassan men have been fined a total of $2,500 for illegally shooting a deer and trying to cover up the offence.

Raymond Labrecque pleaded guilty to unlawfully hunting white-tailed deer. He was fined $1,500. Norman St-Jean pleaded guilty to enabling someone else to use his game seal and was fined $1,000.

Court heard that on November 3, 2010, Labrecque shot an antlered deer while he was hunting alone. Labrecque had already used his game seal on an earlier date, which meant his licence was no longer valid. St-Jean, who was at work when the deer was killed, had previously given his game seal to Labrecque to use. Labrecque tagged the deer using St-Jean's game seal.

The ministry reminds hunters that once they have used their game seal, their licence is no longer valid unless they meet specific conditions of party hunting.

Justice of the Peace Ruby Beck heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, North Bay, April 28, 2011.

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).

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