$5,000 Fine for Wild Turkey Hunting Offences

turkeysA Port Perry man has been fined $5,000 for hunting and trespassing offences.

Peter Thielmann pleaded guilty and was fined $5,000 for hunting while trespassing, making a false statement to a conservation officer, and failing to affix a licence tag to a wild turkey. He received suspended sentences for failing to report the wild turkey harvest and possessing wildlife illegally taken.

Court heard that on May 5, 2013, conservation officers investigated a trespass complaint from a Scugog township landowner. It was determined that Thielmann shot a wild turkey on private property without the landowner’s permission, and failed to tag the wild turkey as required. Thielmann also gave officers false information regarding the kill.

The high fine reflected Thielmann’s prior resource-related convictions.

Justice of the Peace Constance McIlwain heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Whitby, on July 24, 2013.

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.