Ontario – The Ontario government is protecting the province’s deer population by ensuring hunters do not let meat spoil. Willie Jonkman of Flamborough was convicted of allowing the flesh of two white tailed deer to spoil and was fined $2,500.
The court heard that on November 6, 2021, conservation officers, with the assistance of an Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry canine unit, were investigating the illegal harvest of two white tailed deer. The officers attended a business operated by Jonkman, intending to seize the deer as evidence. Prior to the officers’ arrival, Jonkman intentionally spoiled the meat of both animals, causing it to become unfit for human consumption.
Justice of the Peace Paul MacPhail heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Hamilton, on May 8, 2023. To report a natural resource problem or provide information about an unsolved case, members of the public can call the ministry TIPS line toll free at 1-877-847-7667. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS. For more information about unsolved cases, please visit ontario.ca/mnrftips.