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MARCH/APRIL
2010 NEWS |
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L.D.W.F. SEEKING LEADS IN BLACK BEAR SHOOTING SAFE BOATING COURSES AVAILABLE STATEWIDE THREE MEN CITED FOR STEALING OYSTERS IN TERREBONNE PARISH L.D.W.F. AGENTS RESCUE WOMAN CLINGING TO CAPSIZED VESSEL ST. LANDRY PARISH MAN DIES IN BOATING CRASH INCIDENT U.S. COAST GUARD TO PRESENT PUBLIC SERVICE COMMENDATIONS TO FIVE L.D.W.F. ENFORCEMENT AGENTS PLAIN DEALING RESIDENTS ARRESTED FOR NARCOTIC VIOLATIONS RAPIDES PARISH NIGHT HUNTER SENTENCED TO TEN YEARS JONESVILLE MAN CAUGHT TAKING GAME FISH FROM NET L.D.W.F. AGENTS CITE 11 FOR TURKEY VIOLATIONS IN FLORIDA PARISHES NORTHEAST LOUISIANA RESIDENTS PLEAD GUILTY IN FEDERAL COURT BROUSSARD MAN INVOLVED IN BOAT ACCIDENT RECEIVES SECOND OFFENSE D.W.I. OAKDALE COUPLE CITED FOR ILLEGAL POSSESSION OF PYTHONS FOUR MEN CITED FOR OYSTERS VIOLATIONS IN TERREBONNE PARISH L.D.W.F. AGENTS CITE FOUR OYSTER FISHERMEN FOR HARVESTING OYSTERS FROM UNLEASED STATE WATER BOTTOMS HUNTER SUFFERING FROM HYPOTHERMIA RESCUED IN ACADIA PARISH MAN SENTENCED FOR NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE VIOLATIONS IN CAMERON PARISH L.D.W.F. REMINDS TURKEY HUNTERS THAT TAGS ARE REQUIRED FOR LEGAL TURKEY HARVEST SEVEN CITED FOR SEVERAL DEER HUNTING VIOLATIONS ON KISATCHIE NATIONAL FOREST PHOTOS POSTED ON INTERNET HELP AGENTS MAKE DEER HUNTING CASES MAN AND WOMAN SENTENCED FOR VIOLATIONS INVOLVING THE SALE OF RECREATIONALLY CAUGHT FISH L.D.W.F. AGENTS ARREST MISSISSIPPI MAN FOR CLOSED SEASON DUCK HUNTING VIOLATIONS IN CONCORDIA PARISH PLAQUEMINES PARISH MEN CITED FOR FEDERAL SHARK VIOLATIONS L.D.W.F. AGENTS CITE MISSISSIPPI MAN FOR INTERSTATE COMMERCE VIOLATIONS JEFFERSON PARISH BUSINESS OWNER CITED FOR ALLEGED EXOTIC FISH VIOLATIONS L.D.W.F. HOLD LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY GRADUATION FRIDAY, FEB. 26 THREE-YEAR-OLD GIRL BITTEN BY SNOW MONKEY IN CARENCRO LOUISIANA OPERATION GAME THIEF, INC. ISSUES OVER $7,000 IN REWARDS TO TIPSTERS N.W.T.F. HONORS L.D.W.F. EMPLOYEES L.D.W.F. AGENTS CITE FIVE MEN FOR OYSTER VIOLATIONS ON LAKE BORGNE BOATING ACCIDENT LEAVES TWO TEXAS RESIDENTS IN HOSPITAL ORLEANS PARISH RESIDENT RESCUED FROM WOODED AREA NEAR BELLE CHASSE ASCENSION PARISH MAN CITED FOR DEER HUNTING VIOLATIONS PLAQUEMINES PARISH MAN SENTENCED TO SIX MONTHS FOR PUBLIC INTIMIDATION OF AN ENFORCEMENT AGENT
A West Carroll Parish farmer reported a dead Louisiana black bear to Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Division agents on Thursday, April 8. LDWF Sgt. Scott Matthews examined the decomposed bear near La. Hwy. 17, a few miles south of Epps. During the initial investigation, Sgt. Matthews determined the bear had been shot with a rifle. LDWF Large Carnivore Program Manager Maria Davidson noted, “T he department is working to remove the Louisiana black bear from the Endangered Species List. The loss of these animals is regrettable and our Enforcement Division is working aggressively to locate the poacher responsible for this crime.”Anyone with any information regarding this or any other wildlife crime should call Louisiana Operation Game Thief, Inc. at 1-800-442-2511. Cash rewards up to $5,000 are offered for information leading to the apprehension of individuals harming a black bear. Callers may also remain anonymous. Citizens are reminded that killing a bear is a violation of both state law and the federal Endangered Species Act. Violators are subject to penalties of up to $50,000 and six months in jail. In addition, a civil restitution fine of $10,000 per bear will be imposed on anyone convicted of killing a black bear in Louisiana. SAFE BOATING COURSES AVAILABLE STATEWIDE The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is offering numerous safe boating course opportunities for young or inexperienced boaters to get ready for time on the water this spring and summer. Beginning July 1, 2010, persons born after Jan. 1, 1984 will be required to successfully complete a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) boating education course to operate a motorboat over 10 horsepower. The law previously stated that anyone born after Jan. 1, 1988 was required to complete a course. “Studies show that boating education is an important factor in reducing boating crashes and fatalities. Even experienced boaters can benefit from taking a boating education course," said LDWF Lt. Rachel Zechenelly. The LDWF-offered NASBLA approved boating courses are free of charge and are available across the state to assist boaters, fishermen and hunters in meeting boating education requirements. Anyone interested in attending a free course can view a schedule of courses on the LDWF Web site at <http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/boating/courses>. An online NASBLA-approved course is also available for a small fee. A person may operate a motorboat over 10 horsepower without proof of course completion if accompanied by someone over 18 years of age who, if required, has completed the course. LDWF also wants to remind boaters to follow the rules of the road, wear a personal flotation device and designate a sober vessel operator to keep Louisiana’s waterways safe for all boaters. For more information on regulations or boating safety, please visit www.wlf.louisiana.gov/boating <http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/boating>.
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Division agents cited three men for alleged oyster violations in Terrebonne Parish on April 12. Agents assigned to the Oyster Strike Force, while on patrol in Bayou Grand Calliou, found a vessel dredging oysters on a private lease without the lease owner's permission. Agents cited Santiago Flores Martinez, 47, and Aranda Fernando, 31, both from Houma, and Lazaro Garcia Zepeta, 45, from Montegut, for unlawfully taking oysters from a private lease and failure to have written permission. Agents returned all the oysters contained in the dredges and on the vessel to the private lease. The penalty for unlawfully taking oysters from a private lease is a fine ranging from $900 to $950, or imprisonment up to 120 days, or both, plus court costs and forfeiture of anything seized in connection with the violation. Failure to have written permission is punishable by a fine of $400 to $750, or jail time up to 120 days, or both plus court costs. For any person convicted of this violation, the courts may order that person to only harvest oysters from a vessel that employs a vessel monitoring system for a period of one year. Access to the monitoring system shall be granted to LDWF. For that year, the person convicted of these violations shall identify for the department which vessel he will be using to harvest oysters. Agents participating in case were Sgt. Bryan Marie and Senior Agent Mike Garrity. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents rescued a Loreauville woman clinging to her capsized sailboat just west of Cypremort Point State Park in Iberia Parish on Monday, April 12. Sgt. Keith Dellahoussaye and Senior Agent Derek were on boat patrol in Vermilion Bay when they spotted a capsized boat two miles west of Cypremort Point State Park. Upon closer inspection, agents noticed Sheri Patout, 48, holding onto the side of the capsized sailboat. Agents safely retrieved Patout from the water and transported her back to Cypremort Point State Park to be reunited with her husband. She was wearing a personal flotation device. Patout was suffering from early signs of hypothermia and was exhausted and dehydrated after being in the water for an hour. Agents provided her with water on the ride back to the park and made sure she didn't need any other medical attention. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents are investigating a boating crash incident that left a 19-year-old Arnaudville man dead on April 3. Caleb Genin was a passenger in a boat in Bayou Courtableau near Port Barre in St. Landry Parish when he sustained a severe head injury after hitting his head on a low bridge around 6 p.m. David W. Huckaby, 23, of Opelousas was the operator of the boat. Genin was pronounced dead upon arrival at Opelousas General Hospital. LDWF agents believe that alcohol use was involved and have blood tests pending. LDWF agents have made no arrests or issued any citations at this time. Agents investigating the case are Sgt. Travis Huval, Senoir Agents Jason Sanchez, Alan Marbury and Seth Gauthier.
U.S. COAST GUARD TO PRESENT PUBLIC SERVICE COMMENDATIONS TO FIVE L.D.W.F. ENFORCEMENT AGENTS WHAT: Coast Guard to present Coast Guard Public Service Commendations to LDWF WHEN: Monday, April 5, 2010 Presentation: 2 p.m. Media Availability: Immediately following ceremony WHO: U. S. Coast Guard and Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) WHERE: U. S. Coast Guard Sector New Orleans located at 201 Hammond Highway, Metairie, LA 70005 The Eight Coast Guard District is scheduled to present Coast Guard Public Service Commendations to members of the LDWF Enforcement Division. The recipients of the awards are being honored for distinguished actions that promoted maritime safety and lifesaving during the Oct. 17-18, 2009, rescue of four people from a capsized vessel in Lake Pontchartrain. LDWF recipients include: - Senior Agent Richard Clark - Senior Agent Lee Davis - Senior Agent Keith Francis - Sgt. Darryl Galloway - Lt. Ed Laviolette Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents arrested two Plain Dealing residents for alleged numerous narcotic violations on March 26 in Bossier Parish. Brain Matlock, 21, and a 17-year-old friend were each cited for possession of marijuana, cocaine, hydrocodone, omerprazole and drug paraphernalia. Agent Jay Thomas was patrolling in the Goodman Springs Road area when he observed a vehicle parked in a secluded natural gas well site. Upon coming into contact with the two occupants, Agent Thomas observed a large amount of smoke coming from the passenger compartment of the vehicle and a strong odor of marijuana. Agents obtained a consent to search and found suspected marijuana, cocaine, hydrocodone pills, omerprazole pills and numerous drug paraphernalia items. Agents participating in the case were Agent Jay Thomas, Senior Agent Toby Meyers and Senior Agent Michael Dunn. The penalty for possession of marijuana is up to five years in jail and a $2,000 fine. For possession of cocaine and hydrocodone, the penalty each person faces is up to five years in jail and $5,000 fines for each conviction. The penalty for possession of omerprazole is up to five years in jail and a $5,000 fine. Possession of drug paraphernalia carries a fine up to $500 and jail time up to six months.
HOUSTON MAN CITED IN IBERIA PARISH FOR SEAFOOD RESALE
VIOLATIONS agents cited a Houston man for alleged seafood resale violations on Sunday, March 21 in Iberia Parish. Agents stopped a seafood truck being driven by Christopher Jackson, 36, on Hwy. 83 at 7:30 a.m. on suspicion of seafood resale violations. Agents were aware of reports about out-of-state seafood trucks suspected of illegally hauling seafood for resale without the proper licenses. The truck Jackson was driving matched the description of the suspected trucks. Jackson, the owner of Jackson Brother's Agriculture, allegedly did not have the required licenses to purchase seafood in Louisiana for resale. Jackson had purchased 100 sacks of crawfish for approximately $8,800 from a seafood business at Cypremort Point. Jackson was issued citations for buying seafood without a wholesale/retail dealer's license and transporting seafood without the required license. Each offense is punishable by a fine of $250 to $500, or jail time up to 90 days, or both plus court costs. Agents participating in the case were Senior Agents Jason Romero and Ryan Faul. A two-week investigation by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Division in late 2009 led to the sentencing of a Pineville man to 10 years imprisonment for illegal drug possession with intent to distribute and illegal possession of a weapon. Honorable Judge John C. Davidson, of the 9th Judicial District Court of Rapides Parish, sentenced Jeffrey Alan Miles, 37, after he pled guilty to illegal drug possession with intent to distribute, illegal weapon possession and additional wildlife charges on Feb. 24. Miles pled guilty to the following wildlife charges: two counts of hunting from a moving vehicle; two counts of hunting deer from a roadway; two counts of hunting deer with an illegal weapon; two counts of taking deer from a public road; two counts of hunting deer without tags; failing to tag deer; and two counts of possessing an illegally taken deer; and hunting deer during illegal hours with artificial light. Miles was sentenced to serve 60 days on each charge to run concurrent with his existing 10-year imprisonment sentence. Judge Davidson also sentenced Miles for not having a big game license and resident hunting license, failing to maintain sex identification, possession of deer meat without a tag and resisting an officer. He was sentenced to serve 10 days that will run concurrently with his existing 10-year sentence. All sentencing is to be without benefit of probation or suspension of sentence. The court sentenced Miles to be committed to the Louisiana Department of Corrections. The state will reserve the right to file a Habitual Offender Bill on any future convictions. After receiving a public complaint, LDWF agents observed Miles and John D. Youngblood, both of Pineville, hunting deer during illegal hours from a moving vehicle on Nov. 7, 2009. A chase ensued and the suspects abandoned their vehicle taking to the woods on foot. Agents apprehended Youngblood, but Miles eluded Law Enforcement for approximately three weeks until he was finally apprehended by the Pineville Police Department. Senior Agents Kevin Hill, Byron Cammack, Chad Watts and Sgt. Marcus Constance participated in the case. Agents were assisted by the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Department, Pineville Police Department and Pollock Police Department. Assistant District Attorney Mike Shannon represented the state.
A Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agent cited a Jonesville man for allegedly taking game fish from hoop nets in Black River Lake on March 22. Senior Agent Trey Mason cited Charles E. Doughty, 60, for taking game fish illegally and intentional concealment, destruction or deposit of fish or wildlife illegally taken or possessed. Agent Mason located three hoop nets in Black River Lake that contained several game fish. Agent Mason monitored the area and observed Doughty raise the nets and empty the entire contents into the bottom of his boat without returning any of the fish to the water and proceed back to his pier. Once on his pier, Doughty put the fish into a five-gallon bucket and began walking to his residence. As Agent Mason pulled into Doughty’s residence, Doughty went to his boat and began tossing fish into the water from the bottom of his boat. When Agent Mason made contact with Doughty he was found in possession of 41 white perch and he stated he tossed eight or 10 back in the water. Taking game fish illegally carries a fine between $400 and $950 or jail time up to 120 days, or both plus court costs and forfeiture of anything seized. Intentional concealment, destruction or deposit of illegal fish or wildlife carries a fine between $900 and $950, or jail time up to 120 days, or both plus court costs and forfeiture of anything seized. L.D.W.F. AGENTS CITE 11 FOR TURKEY VIOLATIONS IN FLORIDA PARISHES Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents cited 11 men on the March 20 and 21 opening weekend of the 2010 Louisiana turkey season for alleged turkey hunting violations in the Florida Parishes. Agents in West Feliciana Parish cited Kyle J Wilkinson 26, of Sunshine, for hunting turkey over bait, hunting with an unplugged shotgun and for failing to comply with turkey tagging requirements; John R Alligood, 27, of Weyanoke for hunting turkey over bait and failing to comply with turkey tagging requirements; and Greg M Robertson, 25, of Lake Charles, for failing to comply with turkey tagging requirements. In St. Helena Parish, agents cited Keith Asevado, 53, of St. Bernard, Eddie R Chaney, 71, of Clinton, William J Fromenthal, 56, of Schriever, Cody J Billiot, 24, of Theriot, and Jonathan W Stepps, 31, and Clayton Townley, 28, both of Prairieville, for hunting turkey over bait. Agents cited Thomas Sanchez, 63, of Jackson, in East Feliciana Parish and Toney M Corkern, 47, of Angie, in Washington Parish for hunting turkey over bait. If convicted, the penalties for hunting turkey over a baited area and for hunting with an unplugged shotgun each carries a fine of $250 to $500, or jail time up to 90 days, or both plus court costs. Failing to comply with turkey tagging requirements is punishable by fines of $100 to $350, or jail time up to 60 days, or both plus court cost. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division (LDWF) efforts led to 21 northeast Louisiana residents entering guilty pleas to violations of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act before U.S. Magistrate Karen Hayes at the Federal Courthouse in Monroe on March 2. Those pleading guilty were: Curtis Allen, 62, Monroe; William Allen, 25, Benton; Harrison Blackshear, 30, Rayville; Daniel Bryant, 28, Winnsboro; Clinton Causey, 26, Monroe; Steven A. Dade, 58, Bastrop; Marshall Epinette, 23, Downsville; Caleb Franks, 20, Rayville; Michael S. Franks, 40, Rayville; Caleb Gandy, 24, Rayville; Robert M. Harris, Jr., 22, Rayville; John D. McAdams III, 56, Mer Rouge; Nicholas Savana, 22, Monroe; Michael Simms, 24, Winnsboro; Brandon Simpson, 23, Monroe; James G. Simpson, 56, Monroe; Stephanie Simpson, 45, Monroe; William Stanley, 44, Bastrop; Neal E. Thomason III, 30, Downsville; Kevin Tisdale, 36, Delhi; and Drew Wiggers, 24, Winnsboro. Agents cited McAdams and Dade for hunting doves over a baited area. Each received fines of $750. McAdams was also charged with aiding and abetting others to hunt over bait. His penalty for that infraction is a $1,000 fine and loss of hunting privileges. The violations occurred in Morehouse Parish in October 2009. Gandy, Wiggers and Sims were cited Sept. 12, 2009 in Franklin Parish. Gandy was charged with hunting ducks during a closed season, hunting ducks with lead shot, hunting without state duck stamp, hunting without a federal duck stamp and taking non-game bird. Gandy received a fine totaling $1,425, supervised probation and loss of hunting privileges. Wiggers was cited for taking wood ducks during a closed season, hunting ducks without a federal duck stamp and taking a non-game bird. Wiggers received a total fine of $965, supervised probation and loss of hunting privileges. Sims was charged with taking ducks during a closed season and hunting without a federal duck stamp. Sims received a $660 fine, supervised probation and loss of hunting privileges. Agents cited James Simpson, Stephanie Simpson, Brandon Simpson, Nicholas Savana, Clinton Causey, William Allen and Curtis Allen for hunting doves over bait. The violations occurred in September 2009 in Ouachita Parish. Stephanie Simpson, Brandon Simpson, Nicholas Savana and Clinton Causey each received fines totaling $755. William Allen and Curtis Allen were fined $605 for hunting over bait. James Simpson was also charged with aiding and abetting others to hunt over bait, which resulted in a $1,000, supervised probation and loss of hunting privileges. James Simpson’s fines totaled $1,760. Michael Franks, Caleb Franks, Harrison Blackshear, Robert Harris Jr., Neal E. Thomason III, Kevin Tisdale, Daniel Bryant, and Marshall Epinette were all cited for hunting doves over a baited area. The violations occurred in September 2009 in Richland Parish. Each were fined $750 for hunting over bait. Daniel Bryant was also charged $150 for hunting without a state license. Michael Franks also pled guilty to aiding and abetting others to hunt doves over bait, which resulted in an additional $2,000 fine, supervised probation and loss of hunting privileges. Caleb Franks was also charged with aiding and abetting others to hunt doves over bait, which resulted in an additional $1000, supervised probation and loss of hunting privileges. Caleb Franks was also fined $150 for hunting without a state license. Fines in this case totaled $9,300. William Stanley was cited in Morehouse Parish for possession of an owl December 2009 and was ordered to pay a $250 fine. BROUSSARD MAN INVOLVED IN BOAT ACCIDENT RECEIVES SECOND OFFENSE D.W.I. Judge James McClelland with the 16th Judicial District in Iberia Parish sentenced a Broussard man to second offense driving while under the influence (DWI) on March 17. Daniel S. Plendl, 23, pled no contest to the DWI offense and was sentenced to serve 48 hours in the St. Martin Parish Jail, two years of supervised probation, 240 hours of community service and pay a fine totaling $965. Plendl was also ordered to pay for and show successful completion of a driver improvement course as well as attend a victim impact meeting relating to DWI. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents arrested Plendl for suspicion of DWI and Reckless Operation of a watercraft on Aug. 3, 2008. Plendl was operating a boat on Henderson Bay when he was involved in an accident with a jet-ski. Agents already on Henderson Bay immediately responded to the accident scene. Agents found that Plendl had collided with the jet-ski and its operator. The operator of the jet-ski received serious injuries and was taken to a local hospital by Acadian Ambulance. During the course of the accident investigation, agents suspected Plendl was under the influence of alcohol. Plendl refused all field sobriety tests, as well as chemical testing for intoxication. Plendl was booked into the St. Martin Parish Jail. Assistant District Attorney Nicholas J. Markowich prosecuted the case. Agents involved in the case were Lt. Darryl Moore and Sgt. Chris Carpenter.
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents cited an Oakdale couple on March 20 for allegedly possessing pythons without a permit. The Allen Parish Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at the residence of David Beauchemin, 43, and Tawni Beauchemin, 23, on March 19. The search warrant was issued after the Sheriff’s Office received a public complaint alleging the Beauchemin’s were illegally selling animals on the Internet. The Beauchemin’s residence was portrayed as a safe haven animal shelter. After executing the search warrant, the APSO contacted LDWF about the pythons found in the residence. LDWF agents cited the Beauchemin’s with 22 counts of illegally possessing pythons over 12 feet in length without the required permit. The pythons were seized and will be held at an animal shelter. The APSO cited David Beauchemin with obstruction of justice after he allegedly tried to stop the search warrant from being executed. APSO also cited the Beauchemin’s with fraud for allegedly trafficking animals over the Internet illegally. The APSO said additional charges are pending. David Beauchemin is being held at the Allen Parish Jail without bond. Tawni Beauchemin was released so that she could tend to the remaining pythons that are under the permit required 12 feet in length and the animals still remaining at the residence. The public complaint was issued after somebody gave the Beauchemin’s a dog for safe haven only to find it listed on the Internet a few days later for sale. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Division agents cited four men for alleged oyster violations in Terrebonne Parish on March 12. Agents assigned to the Oyster Strike Force, while on oyster-growing-area patrol in Bay Touch-Me-Not, found two vessels dredging oysters on a private lease without the lease owner's permission. The men were identified as Leray Mark Picou, 28, Virgil Robert Dardar, 51, and Robert Authement, 31, all from Montegut, and Steven Peter Verdin Jr., 28, from Houma. The penalty for unlawfully taking oysters from a private lease is a fine ranging from $900 to $950, or imprisonment up to 120 days, or both, plus court costs and forfeiture of anything seized in connection with the violation. Failure to have written permission is punishable by a fine of $400 to $750, or jail time up to 120 days, or both plus court costs. Any person convicted of these violations, may for one year after the date of such conviction, only harvest oysters from a vessel that employs a vessel monitoring system. Access to the monitoring system shall be granted to LDWF. For that year, the person convicted of these violations shall identify for the department which vessel he will be using to harvest oysters. Agents participating in case were Sgt. Bryan Marie and Senior Agent Mike Garrity. L.D.W.F. AGENTS CITE FOUR OYSTER FISHERMEN FOR HARVESTING OYSTERS FROM UNLEASED STATE WATER BOTTOMS Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Division agents cited four Chalmette men on March 15 for alleged oyster violations near American Bay in Plaquemines Parish. While patrolling the oyster growing areas, agents saw the vessel named Hummingbird being used to harvest oysters from a prohibited area located near American Bay. Utilizing LDWF's global positioning satellite equipment, agents marked the location before boarding the Hummingbird. The locations were proven to be on unleased state water bottoms where oyster harvesting is illegal. Heliovoro B Gonzales, 40, Niato Vasquez Manuel, 25, Cruz L. Perez, 40, and David Victor-Aboyles Gonzalez, 21, were cited for unlawfully taking oysters from state water bottoms. Agents seized and returned 60 sacks of oysters to the water. The vessel and dredges were placed under department seizure order pending the court case. The penalty for unlawfully taking oysters from state water bottoms is a fine up to $950, imprisonment for up to 120 days, or both plus courts costs. For any person convicted of this violation, the courts may order that person to only harvest oysters from a vessel that employs a vessel monitoring system for a period of one year. Access to the monitoring system shall be granted to LDWF. For that year, the person convicted of these violations shall identify for the department which vessel he will be using to harvest oysters. Agents participating in the case were Senior Agents Gary Pierce and Brett Nabors.
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents found and rescued a lost hunter experiencing hypothermia along the east side of Bayou Des Cannes near Iota in Acadia Parish on the evening of March 13. Agents received a call from the Acadia Parish Sheriff’s Department about a hunter whose family was concerned that he had not returned from a late evening hunt. Chris Bergeaux, 47, of Iota, was hog hunting along Bayou Des Cannes when he last contacted his family members at 5:30 p.m. with his cell phone. He told them he was going to hunt until dark then return home shortly after. Sgt. Kane Thomas began a brief search along the east side of Bayou Des Cannes when he smelled a faint odor of smoke from burning pine needles. He searched in the direction of the smoke and heard a noise in some very thick brush. As Sgt. Thomas approached the brush he heard someone breathing and moaning. Sgt. Thomas located Bergeaux in a semi-conscious state and suffering from severe hypothermia due to earlier submersion in water and nighttime temperatures in the low 50s. Kim Crochet, a volunteer searcher, assisted Sgt. Thomas in getting Bergeaux out of the woods and to an ambulance that was waiting nearby. It appeared Bergeaux attempted to build a fire to keep warm before he became disoriented and lethargic. Bergeaux was transported to the Jennings American Legion Hospital where he was treated for hypothermia and later released. Also assisting in the search was Acadia Parish Sheriff’s Office personnel and Acadian Ambulance Service.
MAN SENTENCED FOR NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE VIOLATIONS IN CAMERON PARISH Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Division efforts led to the conviction of a Calcasieu Parish man for a misdemeanor involving commercial crabbing on the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in Cameron Parish. U.S. Magistrate Kathleen Kay rendered the decision on March 11, 2010 in Federal Court in Lake Charles. LDWF agents charged Dempsey Jackson, 43, of Sulphur in April 2009 for commercially harvesting crabs on Sabine NWR. Jackson was sentenced to pay $3,035 in fines and serve two years of probation, which bans him from using any NWR during that time. LDWF agents participating in the case were Sgt. Aaron Herpin, Senior Agent Stuart Guillory and Agent Seth Gauthier.
L.D.W.F. REMINDS TURKEY HUNTERS THAT TAGS
ARE REQUIRED FOR LEGAL TURKEY HARVEST If you are 17 years of age or under, or possess a Physically Challenged Hunter Permit with wheelchair classification, you can participate in the March 13-14 weekend private land youth hunts, but you’ll need turkey tags as well. This will be the second year that LDWF will enforce turkey tagging regulations. LDWF’s Wildlife Division is again very interested in the data that will be collected through the turkey tag reporting procedure and hunter participation is vital. With two seasons of deer tagging and the 2009 turkey season completed, hunters should be more familiar with the tagging and reporting process in place. If you haven’t hunted since last year’s turkey season, remember these details: Prior to hunting turkey this season in Louisiana, all hunters, regardless of age or license status, must obtain turkey tags and carry them when hunting. Turkey tags will be issued as follows: * At the point of sale, when purchasing a Turkey license from a license vendor. * La. Lifetime Hunting license holders: License vendors will issue tags free of charge when the Lifetime Hunting license is presented. * Resident Senior Hunt/Fish license holder: License vendors will issue tags free of charge upon request. * Resident Seniors (not required to carry a hunt/fish license): License vendors will issue tags free of charge when a Louisiana driver’s license or state-issued picture I.D. is presented. * Hunters under age 16: License vendors will issue tags free of charge to youth hunters providing a Social Security number and date of birth. NOTE: Hunting licenses and turkey tag are available at all fishing and hunting license vendor outlets. LDWF offices issuing licenses and turkey tags include: ALEXANDRIA – 1995 Shreveport Hwy., Pineville; ph. 318-487-5885 BATON ROUGE – 2000 Quail Drive; ph. 225-765-2887 LAKE CHARLES – 1213 N. Lakeshore Drive; ph. 337-491-2575 MONROE – 368 Century Link Drive; ph. 318-343-4044 OPELOUSAS – 5652 Hwy. 182; ph. 337-948-0255 When in the field, and immediately upon harvesting a turkey, the hunter must: * Tag the turkey with the appropriate Carcass Tag from the license before it is moved and document the kill on the Harvest Report Card portion of the turkey tag. * Record the date of kill and the parish of kill on the Carcass Tag. When transporting the harvested turkey: * The tag must remain attached to the turkey while kept at camp, or while it is transported to the domicile of the hunter. * Possession Tags are printed in the of the 2009-10 Louisiana Hunting Regulations booklet, or can be downloaded via the LDWF Web site, and document the identification of the hunter who harvested the turkey. Correctly completed Possession Tags identify the hunter responsible for the carcass and allow anyone to transport the meat legally. Within 72 hours of the harvest of each turkey, the hunter must: * Validate the kill by toll-free phone at 866-484-4805 or via the Internet at https://www.wildlifelicense.com * Record the validation number obtained by phone or Internet on the Harvest Report Card. Additionally: Hunters are advised not to remove the Carcass Tags from the Turkey Harvest Report Card until a turkey is harvested. Single tags are automatically voided if detached from the license prematurely, not placed on a harvested turkey, and then lost by a hunter. Duplicate tags will be available to replace lost tags at a charge to the hunter. Hunters must record validated turkey on the duplicate turkey tag. Anyone purchasing a license by phone or the Internet will be given both an authorization number and a LDWF identification number that will serve as their temporary license until the actual license arrives by mail. Hunters must tag turkeys using any piece of paper with legibly written authorization number and LDWF identification number, along with the hunters name, address, date and parish where the turkey was taken. This will serve in lieu of the absent carcass tag. Hunters will maintain documentation of any harvested turkey and will validate any harvested turkey as required by law when the hunter’s actual license is received. The hunter will validate the license information from any harvested turkey and will discard the license tags for those validated turkey. NOTE: Hunting license purchases by phone or the Internet will include a handling fee, as will turkey tag requests by Lifetime license holders, Resident Seniors and hunters under age 16. A complete listing of all rules pertaining to turkey season and tagging is provided in the 2010 Louisiana Turkey Regulations pamphlet which can be downloaded at http:// www.wlf.louisiana.gov/hunting/seasons/turkey . To view an instructional video on turkey tagging, click on the link provided on the LDWF Web site home page at www.wlf.la.gov
SEVEN CITED FOR SEVERAL DEER HUNTING VIOLATIONS ON KISATCHIE NATIONAL FOREST Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Division agents recently cited six men and one juvenile for alleged deer hunting violations committed on the Kisatchie National Forest (KNF) in Natchitoches Parish. Robert L. Belsha, 37, Jeremy C. Martin, 23, John D. Redden, 31, Michael L. Sanders Jr., 23, John H. Saucier III, 27, George F. Sheppard, 45, and a 16-year-old juvenile, all of Leesville, were each cited following an investigation of illegally taken deer during the bucks only segment of deer season on the KNF. Agents began the investigation after receiving information that a doe deer had been killed on the KNF during a deer hunt with dogs on Dec. 22, 2009. As a result of the investigation, agents were able to document six doe deer that were allegedly killed illegally by the hunters from Dec. 19 through Dec. 26, 2009 on the KNF. All six men and the juvenile were cited for possession of illegally taken deer during open season, with Belsha, Martin and Saucier each being cited for three counts and Sanders for two counts. Belsha, Redden, Sanders, Sheppard and the juvenile were also cited for illegally taking a deer during open season, with Belsha being cited for two counts. Additionally, the men were cited for failing to comply with deer tagging regulations, with Belsha being cited for four counts and Martin for two counts. Belsha, Martin, Sanders and Sheppard were also cited for failing to comply with deer harvest record requirements, with Belsha and Martin being cited for two counts. In addition, Belsha was cited for two counts of taking over the legal limit of deer. Agents were able to seize three of the illegally taken deer and an antlerless deer tag. In addition to criminal fines, Redden, Sanders and Sheppard may be ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $524.54 and Belsha in the amount of $1,049.08 to LDWF for the illegally taken deer. The penalty for illegally taking a deer during open season is a fine of $500 to $750 and imprisonment between 15 and 30 days. Possession of an illegally taken deer is punishable by a fine of $400 to $950, or up to 120 days in jail, or both plus court cost and forfeiture of anything seized. The penalty for taking over the legal limit of deer is a fine of $250 to $500, or up to 90 days in jail, or both plus court cost. Failing to comply with deer tagging regulations and failing to comply with deer harvest record requirements are each punishable by a fine of $100 to $350, or jail time up to 60 days, or both plus court cost. Lt. Bill Tyree, Sgt. Curt Belton and Senior Agents Russell Brack, Scotty Delaney and Eric Droddy participated in the case.
PHOTOS POSTED ON INTERNET HELP AGENTS MAKE DEER HUNTING CASES Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents cited two Coushatta residents for deer hunting violations on Feb. 18 in Natchitoches Parish. Husband and wife Donald and Tonette Mason were each cited for failure to comply with the deer tagging requirements. Tonette was additionally cited for taking over the daily limit of deer. Tonette allegedly killed a 16-point and 12-point buck in one evening and used her 2009-10 Big Game License Antlered Deer Tag on the 16-point buck deer. Donald used his 2009-10 Big Game License Antlered Deer Tag on the 12-point buck deer. Agents seized both sets of antlers from the Masons. Agents received a complaint from individuals about the two deer being taken on the same day by Tonette. Information was received and confirmed through pictures posted on the Internet. Agents involved in the investigation were Sgt. Chuck Dison and Senior Agent Cullom Schexnyder from the Minden Office. Penalties for taking over the daily limit of deer first offense are a fine between $250 and $500, or imprisonment for up to 90 days or both. Penalties for failing to comply with the deer tagging requirements first offense are a fine between $100 and $350, or imprisonment for up to 60 days or both. The La. Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division is committed to the protection, conservation and replenishment of the natural resources, wildlife and aquatic life. To report any wildlife violation, please contact the La. Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries Operation Game Thief at 1-800-442-2511. MAN AND WOMAN SENTENCED FOR VIOLATIONS INVOLVING THE SALE OF RECREATIONALLY CAUGHT FISH A Baton Rouge man and woman pled guilty for violations stemming from the illegal sale of recreationally caught fish and were sentenced on Feb. 24 by Judge Marilyn Lambert from the 23rd Judicial District Court. Lambert sentenced both John A. Moccabee, 60, and Lolita M. Ralston, 52, to six months probation, a 90 day suspended jail sentence, $1,750 in fines plus court costs, $1,179.93 in restitution as a condition of probation and barred them from fishing in Louisiana for one year. Agents cited the two in Gonzales on July 12, 2009 for selling fish, crabs and shrimp that were caught using recreational licenses while in Grand Isle. They were found to be in possession of 629 fish, 12 pounds of shrimp and 29 pounds of blue crab. Ralston pled guilty to selling fish without a wholesale/retail seafood dealer’s license, selling fish caught recreationally, possessing undersized spotted sea trout and obtaining license by fraud. John A. Moccabee pled guilty to selling fish without a wholesale/retail seafood dealer’s license and selling fish caught recreationally. Agents involved in this case were Senior Agents Louis Burnett, Randy Lanoux and Sgt. Todd Lewis.
L.D.W.F. AGENTS ARREST MISSISSIPPI MAN FOR CLOSED SEASON DUCK HUNTING VIOLATIONS IN CONCORDIA PARISH Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents arrested a Mississippi man on Feb. 17 for migratory game bird violations and other charges in Concordia Parish. Doyle Gene Seymour, 34, of Natchez, Miss., was arrested and charged for hunting coots during a closed season; hunting migratory game birds from a public road, with an illegal weapon and from a moving vehicle; obstruction of justice; driving without a drivers license; possession of an open alcoholic beverage in a motor vehicle; contributing to the delinquency of a minor; and discharging a firearm from a public road. Agents received a call about someone shooting a .22 rifle off the Mississippi River Levee along La. 3196 near the Brandenburg bar pits. Agents found the vehicle in questions and were in the process of pulling the suspects over when one of the suspects tossed a .22 rifle out of the window. Agents stopped the vehicle that was driven by Seymour with his 15-year-old son in the back seat. Agents located a dead coot in the back of Seymour’s truck and retrieved the .22 rifle that was thrown from the truck. After interviewing Seymour, he admitted to agents that he allowed his son to shoot at birds from his vehicle off the levee. Seymour was arrested and booked in the Concordia Parish Jail for the above charges. Possession of alcoholic beverage in a motor vehicle, driving without a driver's license, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, discharging a firearm from a public road and obstruction of justice all have bonds that are determined by District Court. Hunting coots during a closed season, hunting migratory game birds from a moving vehicle, with an illegal firearm and from a public road are charges that are pending in Federal Court. Agents involved in this case are Senior Agent Trey Mason and Senior Agent Joey Tarver.
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents cited two Plaquemines Parish residents on Feb. 19 for alleged violations of Highly Migratory Species (HMS) regulations specifically applied to sharks in federal waters off the coast of Louisiana known as the Exclusive Economic Zone or EEZ. Hoa Van Dang, 50, and Hung Van Nguyen, 44, both of Boothville, were each cited for two federal counts of violating HMS regulations in taking shark without a permit and taking over the limit of shark after they were found to be in possession of 84 sharks. The case will be sent to the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) office for review, and all charges and penalties will be assessed by the NMFS and the U.S. Attorney’s office. Agents were on a Joint Enforcement Agreement (JEA) patrol in the EEZ when they observed a vessel tied to an offshore oilrig with no one on board. As the agents approached the vessel, they noticed there were a number of large coastal sharks on the floorboard. The agents set-up surveillance in the area and later observed a second vessel approaching from further offshore. Two men were on-board this second vessel, with one man boarding the vessel under surveillance. When the agents stopped both vessels, they found the vessels collectively possessed 84 large coastal sharks. After interviewing the men, agents also found they did not possess any type of HMS permits, which are required to take and possess sharks in the EEZ. Federal regulations mandate the commercial possession limit of sharks be 33 per permitted vessel. The 84 sharks were seized and sold for a total of $2,043. The disposition of these funds is pending until the resolution of the case. The primary case agents involved were Sgt. Jason Russo and Senior Agent Timothy Fox. Assisting Agents were Sgt. Kris Bourgeois and Senior Agents Austin Arteaga and Douglas Danna.
L.D.W.F. AGENTS CITE MISSISSIPPI MAN FOR INTERSTATE COMMERCE VIOLATIONS Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Division agents assigned to LDWF's Oyster Strike Force cited an oyster fisherman for alleged oyster violations, which occurred on Feb 9. Harold Strong, 58, from Bay St Louis, Miss., was cited for violating interstate commerce regulations and for not possessing an out-of-state landing permit. On Feb. 12, Oyster Strike Force supervisor Capt. Stephen McManus received a complaint specific to a subject harvesting oysters in Louisiana and landing the oysters in Mississippi. Oyster fishermen landing oysters in Mississippi can do so only from a vessel with an out-of-state landing permit and equipped with a vessel monitoring system. Agents investigating the complaint found that on Feb. 9 the subject landed 73 sacks of oysters at a dock located in Bayou Caddy, Miss. without the required out-of-state landing permit. The penalty for violating interstate commerce regulations is a fine up to $950, or imprisonment up to 120 days, or both, plus court costs and forfeiture of anything seized in connection with the violation. The penalty for not possessing an out-of-state landing permit is a fine of up to $350, imprisonment for up to 60 days, or both plus courts costs. Agents participating in the case were Capt. Stephen McManus, Sgts. Bryan Marie and Scott Keller and Senior Agent Mike Garrity.
JEFFERSON PARISH BUSINESS OWNER CITED FOR ALLEGED EXOTIC FISH VIOLATIONS Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Division agents cited the owner of the Hong Kong Food Market in Jefferson Parish on Feb. 9 for alleged exotic fish violations pertaining to the purchase, storage and sale of live tilapia. The business owner, Jennifer Campbell, 29, of Gretna, was issued a citation for illegally possessing and purchasing exotic fish without a permit, which carries a fine between $400 and $950, up to 120 days in jail, or both plus court costs for each count charged. The LDWF New Orleans Enforcement Office took multiple complaints from concerned citizens about the market possessing and selling live tilapia on site. Agents responded to the market and observed the live fish on the premises with signage indicating that the fish were for sale. LDWF requires that any person or establishment that purchases, possesses or sells any live exotic species of fish, including tilapia, may only do so with a special permit issued by the department. Agents found the permit issued to the owner of the market had expired on June 30, 2009. After a thorough investigation and records inspection, agents discovered the Hong Kong Food Market had made at least 13 separate purchases of live tilapia totaling 4,355 pounds of the fish. A total of 84 pounds of live tilapia were seized and sold for a total of $67.20. The disposition of these funds is pending until court proceedings are finalized. Agents involved in the case were Lt. Edward Skena and Sgt. Jason Russo.
EVENT: 25th Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Law Enforcement Academy Graduation WHEN: Friday, Feb. 26, 2010 - 10 a.m. WHERE: Louisiana Room, LDWF Headquarters Building, 2000 Quail Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70808. BACKGROUND: The graduation will add seven new agents to the 224 agents within LDWF's Enforcement Division following six months of training. The event will include the presentation of colors by the LDWF Enforcement Color Guard, presentation of awards and the Oath of Office ceremony. LDWF agents enforce hunting, fishing and boating regulations that govern the use of the state's natural resources. Their duties include checking dealers, restaurants, breeders, farmers, and transporters for compliance with regulations governing limits, quotas, licenses, sizes, registrations, legal documents and accepted behavior. Agents are also trained for search and rescue and are charged as the lead agency in search and rescue missions after hurricane type events. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) had to euthanize a 35-pound Japanese Snow Macaque or snow monkey on Wednesday, Feb. 10 after the monkey bit a three-year-old girl on the hand at a residence in Carencro. LDWF dispatch received a call from the Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office on the night of Feb. 9 about a little girl who was bitten by a snow monkey while at a friend’s house and sought treatment of her wounds at an after-hours clinic. Snow monkeys can carry and transmit rabies and the herpes B virus. Doctors on staff at the clinic needed to know whether this snow monkey was infectious at the time of the bite to avoid any unnecessary potentially dangerous treatments for the little girl. LDWF Wildlife Division's Large Carnivore Biologists Maria Davidson and Mike Hooker and State Wildlife Veterinarian Dr. Jim LaCour, along with Enforcement Division's Sgt. Travis Huval and Agent Seth Gauthier responded to the residence where the incident took place and sedated the snow monkey with a tranquilizer dart. Once fully anesthetized, the snow monkey was transported to a facility to test the animal for herpes B virus, and then it was euthanized in order to test for rabies. "Unfortunately, in this situation, euthanasia was our only option to perform the testing necessary," said Davidson. "At this point in time the little girl's health is the number one priority and getting the test results quickly will help determine if she needs to have any further treatment for the rabies and herpes B virus." To test for rabies, Dr. LaCour sent the snow monkey's brain to the Louisiana Office of Public Health Lab in Lake Charles with results expected back today, Feb. 11. For the herpes B test, Dr. LaCour overnighted blood samples and swabs to the National B Virus Resource Center at Georgia St. University in Atlanta with results expected within a week. Enforcement Division agents cited the owner of the snow monkey, Tracey Bourque, 39, of Carencro for allegedly possessing a non-human primate without a permit. She faces a fine up to $350, or jail time up to 60 days, or both plus court costs if convicted. Non-human primates were added to the list of potentially dangerous wild quadrupeds in 2006 making it illegal to possess, purchase, sell or import non-human primates in Louisiana. "From a public health standpoint, these wild animals never make good pets and are better off kept in the wild or in a zoo," said State Public Health Veterinarian Dr. Gary Balsamo. "They might seem innocent when they are younger, but once they reach sexual maturity they become very aggressive and dangerous." Agents participating in the case were Lt. Donald Salpietra, Sgt. Huval and Agent Seth Gauthier.
LOUISIANA OPERATION GAME THIEF, INC. ISSUES OVER $7,000 IN REWARDS TO TIPSTERS Louisiana Operation Game Thief, Inc. (LOGT), a Louisiana wildlife crime-stoppers program, awarded $7,100 to diligent citizens statewide at their annual meeting on Jan. 30 at Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) headquarters in Baton Rouge. The group approved and dispensed cash reward amounts for tipsters who reported wildlife violations that led to arrests in 20 wildlife cases. The cases ranged from taking an alligator in a closed season to killing ducks and deer illegally. LDWF Enforcement Division Assistant Chief of Law Enforcement Lt. Col. Keith LaCaze provided LOGT members with information on each case and a recommendation for reward amounts. “Enforcement agents rely heavily on participation from people in the community in reporting these crimes,” LaCaze said. “LOGT provides the cash rewards offered for information leading to arrests in these cases.” LOGT was instituted in 1984 and provides cash rewards for information leading to the arrest of violators of fish and wildlife regulations. Funds are raised through private donations, court directed contributions and through contributions from cooperative endeavor agreements with organizations such as the National Wild Turkey Federation and Quality Deer Management Association. Anyone wishing to report wildlife or fisheries violations should contact an LDWF enforcement agent or call LDWF’s 24-hour toll free Operation Game Thief hotline at 1-800-442-2511. Callers may remain anonymous. Members heard recommendations from Nominating Committee Chairman Bill Chapman, of Sulphur, for LOGT officers for 2010 and elected the following: President Rodney Richard, Sulphur, Vice President Ray Bordelon, Mansura, Allen Davis, Jr., West Monroe, Secretary and Treasurer B. T. Chapman, Baton Rouge. Members of the 2010 Board of Directors are Dr. George Dugal and Betty Dugal, Lafayette, Ronald Coco, Bordelonville, Tommy Hicks, Shreveport, Joe (J. C.) Platt Jr., Swartz, Verbis Lafleur, Opelousas, Marc Dupuy, Jr., Marksville, Bill Chapman and Earl Bodman, Mount Ida, Ark. Outgoing LOGT President for 2008-09 Tommy Hicks was presented a .22 rifle in recognition of his service to the organization. A plaque was presented to family members in memory of the late Sidney Joffrion, Jr., Simmesport, a former LOGT president who passed away in November. A special recognition plaque was presented to LOGT founder Marc Dupuy, Jr., in recognition of his 26 years of service to LOGT and life-long commitment to wildlife conservation.
The Louisiana Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) honored three Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) employees at their annual awards banquet in Marksville on Jan. 23. In addition to the many awards presented to local NWTF Chapters across the state, special service awards went to the following: The “Agent of the Year” went to Enforcement Division Sgt. James Parish for his outstanding efforts in enforcing wild turkey regulations. Sgt. Parish has served for approximately 12 years as an enforcement agent with LDWF. In addition to his achievements with LDWF, he was recognized for his military service. Larry Savage, who recently retired as the turkey program manager with LDWF, was presented the "Outstanding Service" award. Savage served for over 34 years with LDWF in various capacities including region biologist, Deer Management Assistance Program biologist, and finally Turkey Program manager. After accepting the award, Savage reminded the 200 attendees that the success of the Louisiana Wild Turkey Program was in great part due to the cooperative efforts of the NWTF members that are willing to work diligently to help wild turkeys. Pearl River Wildlife Management Area (WMA) technician Mark Bible received the “WMA Technician of the Year” award. This award is presented each year in memory of longtime Jackson-Bienville WMA supervisor James Brooks. Bible, an LDWF employee for over 30 years, received the award for his outstanding efforts to restore wild turkey habitat in the years following Hurricane Katrina on the Pearl River WMA. The NWTF is a long-time partner with LDWF in the conservation and management of the wild turkey throughout the state. The Louisiana NWTF has provided funding over the years to support LDWF’s land acquisition and land management programs. LDWF joins the NWTF in congratulating each of these men for their dedication to wildlife conservation.
L.D.W.F. AGENTS CITE FIVE MEN FOR OYSTER VIOLATIONS ON LAKE BORGNE Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents assigned to the Oyster Strike Force cited five men on Feb. 8 for alleged oyster violations occurring inside the Lake Borgne Temporary Natural Reef located in St. Bernard Parish. While on patrol in St. Bernard Parish agents spotted the vessel “Magnolia” harvesting oysters from the Lake Borgne Temporary Natural Reef. Upon boarding, the agents found 30 sacks of oysters tagged near the cabin. The occupants also had a deck load of oysters culled on the forward deck. After measuring the oysters, agents documented 79 sacks of oysters on the vessel, which are 19 more sacks than the legal possession limit. Nikola Lupis, 47, Jorge Morales Saldana, 21, and Daniel Centeng Gonzalez, 23, all from Texas City, Texas, and James Peter Wilson, 27, and John Edward Norgan Jr., 26, both from La Marque, Texas, were cited for possessing over 60 sacks of oysters on the Lake Borgne public oyster grounds. The penalties for possessing over 60 sacks of oysters are fines up to $350, imprisonment for up to 60 days, or both plus courts costs. Agents seized and returned 19 sacks of oysters to the water. Agents participating in the case were Sgt. Bryan Marie and Senior Agent Mike Garrity. The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission have temporarily opened a portion of the public water bottoms in Lake Borne to oyster harvest with the following restrictions: 1. The daily take and possession limit shall be no more than 60 sacks of oysters per vessel. 2. Bedding from the Lake Borgne Public Oyster Seed Grounds and the Lake Borgne Temporary Natural Reef shall be prohibited. 3. No person harvesting oysters from the Lake Borgne Public Oyster Seed Grounds or the Lake Borgne Temporary Natural Reef shall take, sell or possess more than 60 sacks of oysters on any calendar day regardless of where the oysters are harvested. 4. All oysters harvested within the Lake Borgne Public Oyster Seed Grounds or the Lake Borgne Temporary Natural Reef must be contained within properly tagged sacks prior to leaving these areas. 5. Any oysters contained in sacks or containers that contain fewer oysters than a standard sack shall be included into the 60-sack limit. Any sack or container larger than a standard sack shall be prohibited. 6. If a vessel is harvesting on the Lake Borgne Public Oyster Seed Grounds or the Lake Borgne Temporary Natural Reef, all oysters on that vessel are deemed to have been taken from the Lake Borgne public grounds. 7. It shall be prohibited to harvest oysters from any private oyster lease and any area of the Lake Borgne Public Oyster Seed Grounds or the Lake Borgne Temporary Natural Reef on the same day. These provisions shall also be in effect for the entire Lake Borgne Public Oyster Seed Grounds, but do not apply to harvesters solely fishing private leases in the area.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division and U.S. Coast Guard are jointly investigating a boating accident between a 50-foot yacht and a tugboat pushing barges at 1:30 p.m. on Feb. 8 on the Intracoastal Waterway in Vermilion Parish. The two people aboard the 50-foot yacht were husband and wife Charles Burt, 72, and Sandra Burt, 70, from Seabrook, Texas. After striking the tugboat, Charles Burt was able to get the boat to the Chevron dock in Intracoastal City where he was given first aid by Chevron dock first responders before being airlifted to Lafayette General Medical Center for head injuries. Sandra Burt was taken by ambulance to Lafayette General Medical Center. No one from the tugboat received injuries.
ORLEANS PARISH RESIDENT RESCUED FROM WOODED AREA NEAR BELLE CHASSE Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Division agents rescued an Orleans Parish woman from a wooded area known as Woodland Trails located in Plaquemines Parish on Wednesday, Feb. 3. Connie Dunn, an LDWF Administrative Program Specialist in the Coastal and Nongame Resources Division received a phone call from Nancy Biver, 39, on her cell phone stating she was lost near the Woodland Trails and needed help. Dunn, a 30-year LDWF employee reported the call to LDWF Secretary Robert Barham who then relayed the information to Col. Winton Vidrine, LDWF’s Law Enforcement Division Administrator. According to Agent Reggio, this situation was successfully resolved within a half hour due to the fact Biver carried her cell phone while adventuring out alone enabling her to stay in constant contact with her rescuers. Agents participating in the rescue were Sgts. Scot Keller and Herman Champagne and Senior Agents Villere Reggio and Tim Fox. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents cited a Donaldsonville man on Jan. 18 for deer hunting violations in Ascension Parish. Chad Porto, 37, allegedly harvested two antlerless deer in one day and violated other hunting regulations. The limit for antlerless deer is one per day and three per season. Agents also cited Porto for failing to wear hunter orange, failing to comply with deer tagging requirements and for concealing illegally taken wildlife evidence after he attempted to conceal the illegally taken deer from agents. Both of the deer were seized and donated to local charitable organizations. For taking over the limit of deer, Porto faces a fine between $250 to $500, or up to 90 days in jail, or both plus court costs. The penalty for failing to comply with deer tagging requirements is a fine between $100 and $350, or up to 90 days in jail, or both plus court costs. The penalty for intentional concealment of illegally taken wildlife evidence is a fine between $900 and $950, or up to 120 days in jail, or both plus court costs. The penalty for failing to wear hunters orange is a fine of $50, or jail time up to 15 days or both. In addition to the potential criminal fines, Porto could be subjected to pay restitution in the amount of $524.54. Agents participating in this case were Senior Agent Randy Lanoux and Lt. Dennis Bueche. The public is reminded that they can report wildlife violations anonymously by calling Operation Game Thief at 1-800-442-2511. Participants may be eligible for cash rewards.
PLAQUEMINES PARISH MAN SENTENCED TO SIX MONTHS FOR PUBLIC INTIMIDATION OF AN ENFORCEMENT AGENT On Jan. 20, the 25th Judicial District Court Judge Kevin Conner accepted Nelson Williams III, 34, of Port Sulphur, guilty plea for the charge of public intimidation and sentenced him to serve six months in Plaquemines Parish Prison. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents cited Williams on Oct. 6, 2009 for angling without the required basic and saltwater recreational fishing licenses. During his initial encounter with agents, Williams made numerous threats of physical violence toward the investigating agent. Agents obtained an arrest warrant on Oct. 13, 2009 for the offense of public intimidation. Williams later surrendered himself to the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office at which time he was arrested and booked into jail. Assistant District Attorney Jerry Lobrano of the Office of District Attorney Charles Balley prosecuted the case. Agents participating in the case were Sgt. Adam Young and Senior Agent Villere Reggio.
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