An anonymous call to Saskatchewan's Turn In Poachers (TIP) line began an investigation that resulted in the conviction of two Saskatchewan men for unlawfully shooting a calf moose during a closed season.
Andrew Derksen of Hague and Bobby Derksen of Martensville pleaded guilty to one count each under The Wildlife Act and were fined a total of $5,000 in Rosthern Provincial Court. In addition, both men are suspended from hunting for three years and numerous items seized in the case were ordered forfeited to the Crown.
The Ministry of Environment began the investigation following a TIP call in November 2010. The investigation determined a calf moose had been shot out of season, in the late afternoon. Officers laid the charges when the men returned under the cover of darkness to retrieve the animal.
"The public's assistance is invaluable as we work to protect and preserve Saskatchewan's natural resources," Ministry of Environment's Compliance and Enforcement Director Ken Aube said. "I am confident that the penalties imposed in this case will deter others from this type of illegal activity."
If you know of or suspect a wildlife, fisheries, environmental or forestry violation, contact your nearest Ministry of Environment Office or call the province's TIP line at 1-800-667-7561 or #5555 from any SaskTel cell phone. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward if their information leads to a conviction.
