July 20, 2009

Illegal Crown Land Use Leads to Fines

Two Timmins residents have been fined $1,750 and ordered to remove camping trailers and other material from Crown land.

Andre Lefebvre and Rachel Lefebvre were found guilty and convicted after a trial under the Public Lands Act.

Court heard that on January 31, 2008, a Ministry of Natural Resources' Timmins District conservation officer inspected a Crown land camping site and discovered that a number of trailers had been left over the winter at the site. Further investigation revealed that two of the camping trailers belonged to the Lefebvre's.

Justice of the Peace Dolores Boyuk heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Timmins, on July 14, 2009.

The public is reminded that Crown land can only be occupied for 21 days while camping at one location. After that time, all material must be moved the minimum required distance of 100 metres.

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).

www.ocoa.ca