Hunting & Trapping Digest 2008-2009 - (Page 94) REPORTING A VIOLATION Immediately after witnessing a suspected violation, note as many details as possible. The more information you provide, the faster a violator can be caught and prosecuted. Transmit this information to the Commission region office serving your area as quickly as possible. For a list of all counties in each Game Commission region, and addresses and telephone numbers, see the “Contacting the PGC” page at the beginning of this Digest. • Gather as much information as possible about the subject: an accurate physical description and any other pertinent information. If possible, get a hunting license back tag number. Try to secure names and addresses of other witnesses, and any information they may have about the violation or suspect. Things such as: • What type of violation was it, and when, where and what time did it occur? • What wildlife was involved (species, how many and where are they now)? • Describe the suspect’s vehicle: license number, make, year, color and any other distinguishing features such as dented fenders or other noticeable damage. • Note other physical evidence, such as hides, entrails firearms, cartridge cases, etc. Note type and make of firearms involved. Do you know if the illegal game will be moved soon —when and where? Violation Report Form Use this form to record as much information as possible. Nature of Violation Date Time Location Suspect’s Name Weight Height Hair Eyes Hunting Back Tag Number Vehicle License Number Year Make Color Distinguishing Features Wildlife Involved Evidence Type of Firearm Other Information Your Phone Number TURN IN A POACHER 1-888-PGC-8001 The Game Commission has established a “Turn-In-A-Poacher” hotline as a way for people to report individuals suspected of killing threatened or endangered species or multiple big game animals. The number is 1-888-PGC8001, or sportsmen can also report suspected wildlife crimes by filling out a “Tip” Reporting Form on the agency’s web site at www.pgc.state.pa.us and click on “Turn in a Poacher.” The hotline was authorized by the legislature as part of an act calling for an additional fine of $200 for those convicted of the multiple killing of big game, threatened or endangered species. This additional penalty may be added to fines levied upon those found guilty of Game and Wildlife Code violations. The $200 enhanced penalty will go into a special fund from which half the amount ($100) can be paid to the individual who provided the information that led to the conviction. The remainder will be used to offset the costs of operating the TIP program. The TIP Hotline 1-888-PGC-8001 will be answered by a secure recording device. The TIP Hotline is to be used only for relaying information concerning multiple killing of big game, threatened or endangered species. Information about all other violations, and general information calls, should still be directed to the appropriate region office. Calls to the TIP Hotline submitted using the new online reporting system will be delivered electronically to a special e-mail account in the agency’s Bureau of Wildlife Protection. Both methods of reporting are available to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week. People who provide “tips” can choose to remain anonymous, but if you’d like to claim a reward you’re entitled to, you’ll have to provide a way for the agency to let you know that your information led to the successful prosecution of the accused individual. http://www.pgc.state.pa.us http://www.ihea.com
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