Written by Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources on 18 September 2013
HEARST, ON – Two Hearst men have been fined a total of $1,500 for operating an illegal commercial baitfish operation.
Remi-Serge Gosselin and Roger Neron were found guilty of operating an illegal commercial baitfish operation and fined $750 each.
Court heard that on August 21, 2013, a plain-clothed conservation officer visited the residences of both individuals after receiving information about the illegal operation and purchased live baitfish from Neron. Shortly afterwards, uniformed officers attended both residences and collected evidence such as live minnows, holding tanks and aerator equipment.
Justice of the Peace Sylvie-Émanuelle Bourbonnais heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Hearst, on September 10, 2013.
The Ministry of Natural Resources reminds the public that non-native baitfish, if released into a local water body, can cause serious harm to the local fish population by disrupting the natural food chain and introducing new diseases. Requiring a licence to sell baitfish allows the ministry to regulate and control the transfer of baitfish and to control the spread of invasive species and pathogens.
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 (8477).
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