Minnesota man pleads guilty to numerous illegal hunting charges
A Baudette, Minnesota man faces heavy fines, jail time and revocation of his hunting privileges following an investigation for illegal bear and deer activities by the Department of Natural Resources.
Keith R. Slick, 33, was sentenced July 9 in Lake of the Woods County Court on numerous counts including felony fleeing in a motor vehicle, gross misdemeanor second degree DWI, gross misdemeanor transporting a big game animal, lending/borrowing a bear license, two counts of taking/possessing an over-limit of bear and one count of failing to register a bear.
Sentencing included 90 days in jail, 30 days electronic home monitoring and 120 hours of community service.
Fine and restitution for the violations totaled $2,090. The court reported that $11,000 in fines and fees and a one year jail sentence were stayed pending successful completion of probation. Conditions of probation include no firearms possession or drinking for three years.
Slick’s hunting privileges have also been revoked for three years. Big game violations normally carry a three-year revocation; but given the severity and magnitude of the crimes Slick’s big game, small game, and trapping privileges were revoked.
A forfeited rifle and bow used in the commission of the crimes will be sold at a state auction later this year.
State conservation officer Robert Gorecki who investigated the case hopes the fines, jail time, and revocation of hunting privileges serve as a deterrent for others.
Anyone witnessing a fish or wildlife violation is encouraged to contact the 24-hour, toll-free Turn In Poachers (TIP) hotline at 800-652-9093. Cell phone users can dial #TIP.