An individual has been fined a total of $3,400 for the following wild turkey hunting violations:
Lesley Tokar of Bracebridge was convicted of hunting wild turkey within 400 metres of bait, possessing a loaded and un-encased firearm at night, failing to carry documentation while in possession of a gun, hunting without having licence on his person and hunting with a shotgun not permanently plugged. He was fined $3,400 and is prohibited from possessing an Ontario hunting licence and engaging in any hunting activities for one year.
The Ontario Court of Justice heard that on April 18, 2021, a conservation officer became aware of a social media post by Tokar featuring a photo of turkeys under a feeder and a reference made to the feeder being a short distance behind his home. The officer located the address of Tokar and found he was a licenced hunter and had purchased a turkey hunting licence for that season.
In the early morning of April 25, 2021, the opening day for turkey season, the conservation officer waited in a wooded area behind Tokar’s home to monitor possible hunting. Before legal hunting time the officer observed Tokar exit his home in possession of an un-encased shotgun and enter a small shed in his backyard. The officer contacted Tokar who was in possession of a loaded crossbow and a shotgun loaded with four rounds, which is contrary to regulations. Tokar was also facing an open window where a large pile of corn bait was on the ground and a trail camera facing the pile.
Further investigation found that Tokar was not carrying any of his hunting licences or required documents while hunting with a gun. The gun and crossbow were seized as part of the investigation.
Justice of the Peace Maryan Hudswell heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Bracebridge, during several appearances from 2023 to 2024.
To report a natural resource problem or provide information about an unsolved case, members of the public can call the ministry TIPS line toll free at 1-877-847-7667. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS. For more information about unsolved cases, please visit ontario.ca/mnrtips.
