Michigan men fined for illegally hunting a black bear

MNR News Release

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Two Michigan men have been convicted for illegally hunting a black bear.

Gary Slater, 58, of Marion, Michigan, pleaded guilty and has been fined $1,250 for using a bear licence issued to another person. Alex Bowman, 18, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, also pleaded guilty and has been fined $500 for allowing someone else the use of his bear licence.

The court heard that on August 21, 2011, Bowman returned to the United States and left his bear licence at a hunting camp with Slater. On August 22, 2011, Slater killed and sealed a black bear with Bowman’s bear seal. Conservation officers checked Slater on August 24, 2011, and determined that the bear was unlawfully sealed. The black bear was seized and forfeited to the Crown.

Justice of the Peace Jean-Marie Blier heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Wawa, on November 16, 2011.

The ministry reminds the public that it is unlawful to transfer, buy, sell or give a licence, validation tag, game seal or any other component of a licence to another person. It is also illegal to use or possess such a tag, seal or licence that was issued to someone else.

To report a natural resource 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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