Illegal Possession of Wildlife That Has Been Killed, Injured or Captured

Question: What penalties apply in Ontario if someone is convicted of possessing illegally killed, injured, or captured wildlife?

Answer: In Ontario, possession of wildlife that was killed, injured, or captured contrary to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1997, 1997, c 41 at section 12 can result in a maximum fine of $25,000 and/or up to two years in jail   The court can also order forfeiture of the illegally taken wildlife and any equipment used, and may suspend any hunting, trapping, or fishing licence   If you want to understand your risk and next steps, DefendCharges.ca™ can help with paralegal support in Ontario, call (647) 559-3377 for a consultation.

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What Are the Possible Consequences of Being Found Guilty of Having Illegally Killed, Injured or Captured Wildlife?

The Consequences Include a Substantial Fine and the Possibility of Imprisonment, and May Also Include the Forfeiture of Any Wildlife Obtained Contrary to the Act, the Forfeiture of Any Equipment Used in the Offence, and the Suspension of Any Hunting,...

Note: Please contact DefendCharges.ca™ by phone at: (647) 559-3377 to discuss any specific questions that you may have.

Understanding Possession of Illegally Killed, Injured or Captured Wildlife

The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, SO 1997, c 41 prohibits the possession of wildlife that has been killed, injured or captured contrary to the Act. This offence is taken very seriously and there are significant penalties for those who are convicted. Under Section 12 of the FWCA, it is an offence to possess wildlife that has been killed, injured or captured contrary to the Act.

The Law

The offence of possess illegally killed, injured or captured wildlife is prescribed within Section 12 of the FWCA,  wherein it is stated:

Potential Penalties

This offence carries a maximum fine of $25,000 and/or imprisonment for a term of not more than two years. The offence of possessing wildlife that has been killed, injured or captured contrary to the Act is a serious one. Those who are convicted of this offence will face significant penalties, including fines and possible imprisonment. In addition to the fines and possible imprisonment, those who are convicted of this offence may also face other penalties. These can include the forfeiture of any wildlife that was taken contrary to the Act, the forfeiture of any equipment used in the offence, and the suspension of any hunting, trapping or fishing licence.

Summary Comment

The offence of possessing wildlife that has been killed, injured or captured contrary to the FWCA is a serious one and those who are convicted of this offence will face significant penalties. It is important for those who hunt, trap or fish to be aware of the laws and regulations that govern these activities in order to ensure that they are not breaking the law.