The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry would like to remind hunters that it is illegal and unsafe to discharge a firearm down, from or across public roads. Hunters are also reminded they must handle firearms with reasonable consideration for people and property.
Following an investigation, two men have been convicted of firearms offences and possessing illegally killed wildlife in the Bancroft area.
On November 12, 2019, conservation officers from the Bancroft Enforcement Unit located evidence of recent deer hunting activity while conducting a patrol in Carlow Township of Hastings County. An investigation determined that earlier that day two men had harvested two deer near Hass Road, and that both men discharged their firearm across the road.
On March 3, 2020, both men pleaded guilty to charges under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Actin Bancroft Provincial Offences Court, before Justice of the Peace Ernest Parsons.
Brandon Bellis of Foxboro was fined $3,000 for discharging a firearm without reasonable consideration for people or property and $500 for possessing illegally killed wildlife. He also received a one-year hunting suspension and must successfully retake the Ontario Hunter Education Course before he can hunt again.
Eric Mclennan of Campbellford was fined $3,000 for discharging a firearm without reasonable consideration for people or property and $500 for possessing illegally killed wildlife. He also received a one-year hunting suspension and must successfully retake the Ontario Hunter Education Course before he can hunt again. The seized deer was donated to a local charity.
Conservation officers continue to patrol and protect our natural resources during the COVID-19 outbreak and would like to remind everyone that by respecting seasons, sanctuaries, bag and possession limits we all help ensure our natural resources stay healthy. Visit Ontario’s website to learn more about how the province continues to protect Ontarians from COVID-19.
To report a natural resource violation or provide information about an unsolved case, members of the public can call the ministry TIPS line toll free at 1-877-847-7667 or contact your local ministry office. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS. For more information about unsolved cases, please visit ontario.ca/mnrftips .
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
