MOOSE JAW RESIDENT FINED FOR ILLEGAL HUNTING AND FISHING

A Moose Jaw resident pleaded guilty to four counts under the Saskatchewan Wildlife Act and two counts under the Saskatchewan Fisheries Regulations and was fined $17,500 in Moose Jaw Provincial Court on Monday.

Thomas Keeler was convicted of unlawfully hunting elk and moose, using another person's license, carrying a loaded firearm in a vehicle and illegal fishing. In addition to the fines and surcharges, Keeler has been barred from hunting for three years and from fishing for one year.

The charges were laid as the result of a two-year investigation by the Ministry of Environment. All items seized in the case were ordered forfeited to the Crown.

"Most hunters in Saskatchewan respect hunting laws, which are intended to protect and preserve our natural resources," Ministry of Environment Compliance and Field Services executive director Kevin Callele said. "Unfortunately, there are some who break the law. This result sends the message that Saskatchewan's fish and wildlife resources are valued and will be protected."

Anyone who is aware of or suspects wildlife, fisheries or environmental violations is encouraged to report them to the nearest Ministry of Environment office or to call the province's toll-free Turn In Poachers (TIP) line at 1-800-667-7561 or #5555 for SaskTel cell phone subscribers.

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For more information, contact:

Davey Harvey
Environment
Prince Albert
Phone: 306-953-2993

Gary Harrison
Environment
Prince Albert
Phone: 306-953-2994