Killing sow, cubs proves costly

An East Algoma man was fined $1,225 for unlawfully hunting bear.
Richard Kent, 64, also had his hunting privileges suspended for one year.
Court was told that on May 22, Kent shot and killed three bears, then left them to spoil. He argued the bears posed a threat to public safety.
The operator of a private day care had told Kent a sow and two cubs had crossed its property. Several days later, Kent spotted the bears about 250 metres from the day care on private land and dispatched all three.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and local police services were not contacted at any time regarding the presence of the bears.
The Crown successfully argued that neither the defence of property nor defence of life legislation applied to Kent’s actions.
Justice of the Peace Jean-Marie Blier heard the case Sept. 6 in Sault Ste. Marie.
The public is reminded that the killing of bears in defence of property or life must be reasonable and justifiable, and must be reported to the MNR immediately.
To report any bear problems, contact the “Bear Wise” hotline at 1-866-514-2327.
To report a natural resources violation, call toll-free 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) any time or contact your local MNR office during regular business hours.
You also can call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).