(Labrador City, NL) January 15, 2025 – The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) has received a number of reports of weapons offences believed to be related to small-game hunting.

The RNC is concerned given the apparent disregard for public safety with reports received from high traffic areas around a local walking trail and hospital. The reports received indicate offenders could face municipal, provincial or federal penalties including firearms charges.

The RNC is reminding hunters that they could face criminal charges and that it is unlawful to:

• discharge or handle a firearm while hunting without exercising reasonable care for the safety of other persons;
• carry, transport or possess firearms or ammunition during an open season for shooting in any area frequented by wildlife, unless you have a valid game licence and/or permit;
• carry, transport or possess a loaded firearm in or on, or discharge a firearm from, any aircraft, motor vehicle, snow machine, or all- terrain vehicle. A firearm is considered to be loaded if there is a live shell or cartridge in the chamber or magazine and the magazine is attached to the firearm in its usual position;
• discharge a firearm (including bows or crossbows) within 1000 meters of a school, playground or athletic field or within 300 meters of a dwelling;
• hunt small game using a shotgun that can hold more than three shells in the magazine and chamber combined, or to use a shotgun shell loaded with a single bullet.

The RNC is actively working to locate those responsible and is urging the public for help. Anyone with information is asked to call Labrador West RNC at 709-944-7602. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com.

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File # 2024-88881, 2025-2216

 

Cst. James Cadigan, #775
Public Communications Officer
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
media@rnc.gov.nl.ca