the MNR
A Toronto-area man has been convicted of a number of offences related to illegal hunting.
Pal Szamko of Newmarket was fined $1,500 for discharging his firearm carelessly while hunting, $3,800 for transporting an over-limit of grouse, and $1,500 for unlawfully possessing another person’s moose game seal.
Szamko is not allowed to hunt in Ontario until he successfully completes the hunter education course and examination.
Court heard that on Oct. 18, conservation officers contacted Szamko at a road check on Highway 17 in Schreiber.
Szamko was found with 34 ruffed and spruce grouse—19 over the daily legal limit of 15.
Officers also found evidence that a bullet had been discharged inside the truck’s cab.
Szamko admitted to unintentionally firing his gun through his back seat into the truck’s cargo box while loading his gun to go moose hunting south of Armstrong two days earlier.
He also had a moose game seal that belonged to another hunter.
Justice of the Peace Ray Zuliani heard the case July 29 in Thunder Bay.
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).
