Five people fined thousands after wildlife trafficking investigation

Five people were fined a total of $15,810 after tips from the public led to a lengthy investigation into illegal wildlife trafficking.

According to Saskatchewan’s environment ministry, calls to the province’s Turn In Poachers and Polluters line about suspected wildlife trafficking came in May of 2021. An investigation was launched by conservation officers, which ended with the search of a home in the Meskanaw area, northwest of Saskatoon, in March of this year.

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In October, Star City resident Benjamin Tschetter pleaded guilty to two counts of trafficking in wildlife in a Melfort courtroom, specifically the meat of elk and white-tailed deer. He was fined $6,000.

Keith Tschetter, also a resident of Star City, pleaded guilty to a single count of trafficking in elk meat and was fined $2,800. Both were handed five-year hunting suspensions.

In July, Saskatoon resident Kenneth Tschetter pleaded guilty to trafficking in white-tailed deer. He received the same five-year suspension along with a $2,800 fine.

Last month, Christina Duh, a Meskanaw resident, pleaded guilty to trafficking in white-tailed deer. She was hit with $2,800 in fines and handed a five-year hunting suspension.

Another Meskanaw resident, Donald Duh, pleaded guilty to hunting at night, hunting without a licence, and obtaining a licence while having unpaid fines. He was fined $1,410 and picked up a two-year suspension.

“Trafficking in wildlife shows disrespect for public resources and steals opportunities from lawful hunters,” the ministry said in a statement. “Left unchecked, such illegal activities can negatively affect wildlife populations and overall ecosystem health.”

Anyone who suspects illegal activities involving wildlife or pollution was encouraged to call the toll-free tip line at 1-800-667-7561 or file a report online.

“You may be eligible for cash rewards from the SaskTIP Reward Program and don’t have to give your name,” the ministry noted.