May 1, 2020 at 12:56 pm
By Corporal John MacDonald
Game Warden Jon Parker works closely with small and large landowners in his patrol area to help manage recreational activity. A recent surge in criminal mischief and trespassing complaints have surfaced specific to people cutting locks off private gates. Warden Parker alone has responded to eight cases of gates that were unlawfully opened by destroying locks. One case recently occurred on private land near Nicatous Lake where several locks on gates were destroyed to gain unlawful access.
Warden Parker worked with the MDIFW Landowner Relations Program and strategically placed several game cameras to try and apprehend those responsible. One of his cameras captured two individuals in the act of cutting a lock with bolt cutters.
A follow-up investigation identified two male subjects who were staying at a nearby camp. The men admitted their role in cutting the locks and produced the bolt cutters used to gain entry behind the locked gates. As a result, both men received criminal mischief and criminal trespass summonses.
Game wardens across the state take landowner abuse seriously and work tirelessly to make sure those responsible are held accountable. Access to private land is critical to maintaining a space in which to enjoy all outdoor activities. If you have landowner abuse to report, please call your nearest public safety dispatch center and ask to speak to a game warden.
Augusta 1-800-452-4664
Bangor 1-800-432-7381
Houlton 1-800-924-2261
Learn more about how you can support Maine's landowner relations program and become an Outdoor Partner by visiting mefishwildlife.com/outdoorpartners