Police And DOC Likely To Lay Charges Next Week
17 June 2005
Police And DOC Likely To Lay Charges Next Week
The investigation of a seal shooting on the Otago Peninsula last Sunday has essentially been concluded by the Police and the Department of Conservation.
Almost all of the people that both agencies wanted to speak to have been interviewed with regard to the incident. Both DOC and the Police are pursuing charges.
The Department of Conservation will be pursuing charges under the Marine Mammal Protection Act 1978, which carries maximum penalties of up to six months imprisonment and a fine of up to $250 000.
“Our solicitor is currently reviewing the evidence, with a view to advising the regional conservator about laying charges. It is likely that the department will be laying charges against three of the men early next week,” said Coastal Otago Area Manager, Robin Thomas.
“We are still investigating the possibility of laying further charges against the other men who were present on the boat,” he said.
The Police are pursuing charges under the Arms Act 1983, and it is likely they will also begin to lay charges next week.
ENDS