The Ontario government is safeguarding the public from unsafe and illegal hunting practices.
Ernesto Soares from Etobicoke pleaded guilty to trespassing for the purpose of hunting and discharging a firearm from the roadway. He received $8,000 in fines and a two-year hunting licence suspension. In addition, the firearm seized as part of the investigation was forfeited to the Crown.
The court heard that on November 17, 2023, conservation officers were conducting a controlled deer decoy operation east of Parry Sound. The planned operation was in response to public complaints of trespassing and historical unsafe hunting practices in the area. Ernesto Soares shot at the deer decoy from the roadway with a rifle, onto property where he did not have permission to hunt.
Justice of the Peace Christine Leclair heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Parry Sound on March 5, 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/mnrftips.
