The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is currently seeking information about the unlawful demise of a Louisiana Black Bear in Concordia Parish. The bear, weighing in at a hefty 375 pounds, met its end due to a gunshot wound, as confirmed by agents following the discovery of its body off Blount Road on the Richard K. Yancy Wildlife Management Area on November 20, according to a statement from the LDWF.
In an effort to spur public assistance, a hefty reward sum, reaching up to $3,500, has been posted for anyone whose tips can lead to a conviction. These funds are not only pooled from the Safari Club International Acadiana Chapter, contributing $2,500, but also see an additional pledge of up to $1,000 from the Louisiana Operation Game Thief program.
These illegal wildlife incidents are taken seriously, with consequences that include a fine ranging between $900 to $950, alongside a possible incarceration period of up to 120 days. Furthermore, the perpetrator may be facing a civil restitution charge amounting to $4,350, the estimated value for replacing the illegally taken bear.
Should you possess any knowledge concerning this act of wildlife crime, LDWF encourages reaching out via their Operation Game Thief hotline at 1-800-442-2511. Alternatively, one can text LADWF and their tip to 847411, or utilize the department's smartphone application, "LADWF Tips," which is available for both iPhone and Android devices, as reported in the LDWF's news release. These channels are monitored round-the-clock, and informants may request anonymity.
