Dover Man Convicted Of Numerous Wildlife Violations

[Brandon-K]

DOVER MAN CONVICTED OF NUMEROUS WILDLIFE VIOLATIONS

CONCORD, N.H. - New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Conservation Officers have successfully concluded an investigation that focused on numerous unlawful hunting activities of Carl R. Chapman, age 63, of Old Rochester Road, Dover. The wildlife violations ranged from illegal baiting practices to unlawful methods of taking deer, night hunting and unsworn falsification.

"As a result of outstanding field work by Conservation Officers Justin Ferland, Michael Matson, William Boudreau, Christopher McKee and Lt. Kevin Jordan, significant leads were developed and key evidence was uncovered," said Lt. John Wimsatt of Fish and Game. He noted that Marc Dupre, a criminalist at the N.H. Department of Safety, Division of State Police Forensic Laboratory, provided valuable assistance to the investigation.

During the investigation, a search warrant was executed at Chapman's residence leading to the seizure of numerous items, including archery equipment and a modified firearm used in commission of several of the wildlife violations.

At an appearance in Dover District Court on December 6, 2007, Chapman was convicted of two counts of taking deer with a firearm during the archery season, two counts of taking deer with a .22 caliber rimfire firearm, one count of illegal baiting of wildlife, one count of illegal cutting of tree limbs, one count of unsworn falsification of deer registration reports and an illegal night hunting charge. He was fined $2,952, and his privileges to hunt in New Hampshire were suspended for five years.

"As the investigation unfolded, it became clear to us that this poaching activity was substantial and had been occurring for an extended time. His unlawful hunting practices were well thought out and highly unethical," said Lt. Wimsatt. He stressed that the vast majority of hunters take pride in complying with New Hampshire's hunting regulations, in place to effectively conserve the wildlife we share and to ensure public safety.

The Conservation Officers and wildlife professionals of the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department are dedicated to its mission, as stated below:

As guardian of New Hampshire's fish, wildlife, and marine resources, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department works in partnership with the public to conserve, manage, and protect these resources and their habitats; inform and educate the public about these resources; and provide the public with opportunities to use and appreciate these resources. Visit http://www.WildNH.com.

[Merrillizer™]

Way to go.

Hit 'em in the wallet. HARD.

[Riverjim]

I wouldn't mind seeing twice the fine. Great to hear they bagged someone doing that. Imagine how often people don't get caught.

Good job guys.

Jim