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Spotlighters beware! you might be shooting an
ASA |
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September 11, 2014 |
Fish and Game is taking aggressive action to
catch and prosecute people who spotlight game
animals. In areas where conservation officers
suspect spotlighting or other suspicious
activity near roads, they are using "artificial
simulated animals" to bust unlawful hunters.
Artificial simulated animals, commonly called
ASAs, are life-like figures of deer, elk and
other game species, complete with moving parts.
"Officers watch the animal and respond if
someone violates the law," said Fish and Game
Chief of Enforcement Greg Wooten.
Shooting from a vehicle or road is dangerous,
and unethical. It casts a poor light upon
hunters. Many of the citations issued to road
hunters who violate game laws include
spotlighting, trespassing, shooting from a
motorized vehicle, shooting across the road and
waste of game.
Anyone found guilty of shooting an artificial
animal will lose their license, and face a fine
up to $1,000 and a possible jail sentence of up
to six months. There is also a $50 minimum
restitution penalty for shooting an ASA to help
maintain the decoys.
Judges across the country have upheld the use of
ASAs and other such tools as legitimate methods
of apprehending violators. Their use has helped
reduce illegal hunting. More than 48 states and
several Canadian provinces have been using
artificial animals since the late 1980s.
"This is similar to other law enforcement
agencies watching an intersection based on
reports of frequent instances of failing to stop
at a stop sign, or monitoring speed compliance
using radar," said Wooten. "This tool is
extremely important in our effort to curtail
illegal activity that is otherwise
undetectable."
Fish and Game Conservation Officers also conduct
impromptu enforcement check stations where all
hunters and anglers, successful or not, must
stop. Usually conducted on less traveled roads
and set up at any time day or night, impromptu
check stations are another effective tool
officers use to detect wildlife crimes.
One of the most effective tools for detecting
illegal activity by hunters is the watchful eye
of other outdoor enthusiasts. Anyone who
suspects illegal activity regarding fish and
wildlife is asked to call the Citizens Against
Poaching hotline at 800-632-5999. Callers may
remain anonymous and may receive a cash reward
for information leading to a citation. |
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