May 8, 2009
$1,500 FINE FOR HUNTING DEER ON PRIVATE PROPERTY
A Vermont hunter has been fined $1,500 after shooting a deer on private property in a residential area.
Rodney Bicknell, 58, of Forest Dale, Vermont, has been convicted of careless hunting under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act. He is prohibited from hunting in Ontario for one year and must complete a hunter education course in Ontario or his home state. Bicknell’s firearm was confiscated and will be returned once his fines are paid.
Court heard that on November 7, 2008, Bicknell spotted a deer while driving on Highway 596, north of Kenora. Bicknell parked in a private driveway, exited his vehicle and shot the buck, killing it.
The deer was shot with a high-powered rifle in an area with several rural residences, along a main traffic corridor for residents, cottagers and commuters to Minaki and Whitedog.
Justice of the Peace Daisy Hoppe heard the cases in the Ontario Court of Justice, Dryden, on April 21, 2009.
To report a natural resource violation, call 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) toll-free any time or contact your ministry office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).