Illegal Moose Cover-up Proves Costly
Photo courtesy OntarioNewsNorth.com
December 22, 2010
Three Elliot Lake men who participated in the cover-up of an illegally shot bull moose have received fines totaling $4,500 and hunting licence suspensions.
Jacques Monette pleaded guilty to unlawfully using another hunter’s licence and obstructing a conservation officer, and was fined $2,000. Victor Monette pleaded guilty to possessing illegally killed wildlife and obstructing a conservation officer, and was fined $1,500. Michael Wickett pleaded guilty to obstructing a conservation officer and was fined $1,000. All three men also received one-year hunting suspensions in Ontario.
The court heard that in late October 2009, conservation officers investigated a bull moose that was hanging in a garage in Elliot Lake. The Monettes and Wickett were linked to the moose and provided false information to the conservation officer in an attempt to mislead and hinder the investigation. The investigation revealed the moose was shot in the Elliot Lake area; however, a bull tag valid for the northwest part of the province was put on the moose in an attempt to make it appear it was legally shot. Charges against several others in this case are still pending.
Justice of the Peace Pierre Leclerc heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Elliot Lake, on December 15, 2010.
To report a natural resource violation, call 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) toll-free any time or contact your Ministry of Natural Resource Office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
