Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents cited two men for alleged migratory game bird violations on Jan. 9 in St. Martin Parish.
Agents cited JeanPaul F. Leblanc, 23, of St. Martinville, and Seth E. Schouest, 32, of Parks, hunting migratory game birds over a baited area, and hunting ducks without a federal stamp, state duck license and hunting license. Leblanc was also cited for placing bait to take migratory game birds. Schouest was also cited for violating non-toxic shot requirements.
Agents received a tip about illegal hunting activity around Bayou Tortue near St. Martinville. Agents set up surveillance on the area and documented that the area was baited with red milo and corn.
On Jan. 9, agents heard gunshots coming from the baited area. Agents also observed Leblanc and Schouest leaving the baited area in possession of shotguns.
Agents made contact with the men and found that they did not possess basic hunting licenses, state duck licenses or federal duck stamps. Leblanc admitted to placing the bait. Agents also found Schouest in possession of toxic shot.
Placing bait to take migratory game birds, hunting migratory game birds over a baited area, violating non-toxic shot requirements, and hunting migratory game birds without a federal duck stamp are all federal violations and penalties will be determined in federal court. Hunting without a basic hunting license brings up to a $50 fine and 15 days in jail. Hunting migratory game birds without a state duck license carries up to a $50 fine and 15 days in jail.
Senior Agent Lucas Hidalgo and Senior Agent Adam Tieben are the agents participating in this case.
Tags:Agents[1], Game Bird[2], Hunting[3], Migratory[4], Violations[5]
