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Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Stiffer Penalties for Poachers (ODNR)
COLUMBUS, OH - Legislation raising the restitution value of wildlife taken illegally took effect today, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife.
"The new standard reflects the present-day value of Ohio's wildlife," said Jim Lehman, law enforcement administrator for the Division of Wildlife. "The monetary value of most of our wildlife can range anywhere from $20 to nearly $2,500, depending on criteria and weighting factors. Trophy deer are an exception; their value can range much higher."
The new restitution schedule stems from legislation (HB238) passed by the Ohio General Assembly last year. House Bill 238 revised provisions governing the restitution value of wild animals that are unlawfully held, taken, bought, sold or possessed. It is the first revision since 1994 and establishes a formula that reflects the current status and scarcity of various species.
SPECIES RESITITUTION VALUE
new old
walleye 50 10
largemouth bass 50 10
steelhead 50 10