Nootka RCMP update on outcome of 2019 investigation

Nootka Sound

2021-04-09 11:55 PDT

File # 2019- 622

The Nootka Sound RCMP in partnership with Fisheries & Oceans Canada want to update the public on the 2019 investigation that led to convictions against several non-seasonal residents.

See original release here

The investigation was initiated by the RCMP in Gold River when they found that two suspects could not produce valid fishing licenses, a third suspect produced multiple licenses, yet they were all in possession of a significant amount of salmon and other fish, none of which was properly recorded.

Officers from the West Coast Vancouver Island DFO Detachment, the North Vancouver Island DFO Detachment and the Nootka Sound RCMP all worked seamlessly together on this investigation said Nootka Sound RCMP Detachment Commander Corporal Kim Rutherford. The monetary fines and fishing prohibitions issued were significant, and should serve as a warning to those who come to our beautiful area, blatantly disregard the rules, and feel they can take as many fish as possible

Fishery Officers from Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) attended Gold River and took conduct of the investigation. Fishery Officers seized the 30 foot Cutwater fishing vessel, Chinook salmon, Ling Cod, Rockfish, as well as a significant quantity of fishing gear on the vessel.

The suspects all appeared in Campbell River Provincial Court on February 24th, 2021 and entered guilty pleas on their charges. During the sentencing the suspects forfeited all of the fishing equipment seized on the vessel, 2 outboard engines (300hp and 25hp Yamaha) and were also ordered to pay the storage and transport cost for the seized vessel. The suspects all received prohibitions against fishing or holding a Fishing Licence anywhere in Canada, along with monetary fines.

Fishery Officer Greg Askey, Field Supervisor with the Campbell River DFO Detachment, stated that this was the most significant Sport fish violation he had seen in over 20 Years

Former Nootka Sound RCMP Detachment Commander, S/Sgt Joshua Wiese commented, This investigation highlights the important role our local community members, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, and Nootka Sound RCMP play in protecting the resources of the Nootka Sound.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada works closely with the RCMP, other Government Agencies, Community Groups, and the general public to ensure compliance with Fisheries Regulations. Suspected Violations can be reported 24hrs/day through the Observe, Record, Report line at 1-800-465–4336

Released by

Cpl. Chris Manseau

Email: chris.manseau@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

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