MAN FOUND GUILTY OF SHOOTING TRUMPETER SWANS
FINDLAY, OH – A Toledo man has been found guilty of shooting two trumpeter swans. Trumpeter swans are an endangered species in Ohio with the population estimated at 150 individuals within the state.
William Jeske, 77, of Toledo was recently found guilty by Magistrate Lou Wargo in the Port Clinton Municipal Court for shooting the two swans.
Jeske was ordered to pay $5000 in restitution. Additionally he was fined $1000 which was suspended, as was his jail time. Jeske also received a 5 year hunting license suspension. He may get his hunting rights back after he completes a hunter safety course. Jeske was turned in by a hunter who was not going to allow this type of crime to go unreported.
The Division of Wildlife encourages anyone who is aware of a possible violation of wildlife laws to call the Turn In a Poacher (TIP) line at 1-800-POACHER. Callers can remain anonymous.