SASKATCHEWAN RESIDENTS CHARGED FOR ILLEGAL HUNTING

Four Saskatchewan residents - two from Assiniboia, one from Mankota and one from the Moose Jaw area - were recently charged with a total of 20 counts of illegal hunting-related activities under The Wildlife Act.

In each case, the primary purpose of the illegal hunting activities was to harvest trophy class animals. There were 211 sets of trophy antlers and 16 firearms seized in relation to the offences.

The first investigation involved three individuals. James Frampton of Mankota was charged with two counts, including hunting during a closed season. Lyle Helland of Assiniboia was charged with four counts, including possessing unlawfully-taken wildlife. Brian Bardal of Assiniboia was charged with seven counts, including discharging a firearm from a vehicle.

The second investigation involved Tom Keeler of rural Moose Jaw, who was charged with seven counts, including using another person's licence while hunting, hunting without a valid licence and possession of unlawfully-taken wildlife.

"Most hunters in Saskatchewan respect game laws, but some try to get around the system intended to protect and preserve our natural resources and the environment," Environment's Compliance and Field Services executive director Kevin Callele said. "Our laws are designed to provide effective management of wildlife populations and to ensure opportunities are available now and in the future for hunters."

Both cases began as a result of public complaints. The first investigation started in November 2005 and the second investigation began in January 2007. Both investigations are ongoing and additional charges might be laid.

Anyone who is aware of or suspects environmental or resource abuses is encouraged to call any Ministry of Environment office or the 24-hour Turn-in-Poachers (TIP) line at 1-800-667-7561. SaskTel cell phone users can now dial #5555 to contact the TIP line.

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For more information, contact:

Dave Harvey
Environment
Prince Albert
Phone: 306-953-2993
Cell: 306-961-1457