BURSTAn assistant hunting guide has been ordered to pay more than $30,000 after taking a client outside a licensed hunting area in northern British Columbia.
According to a social media post by B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS), Franck Besseat pleaded guilty to guiding a hunter in a zone not authorized under his employer’s outfitting licence. The offence took place near McBride in September 2022.
BCCOS said the investigation was launched after a tip was submitted to the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line. Officers with BCCOS Specialized Enforcement Section followed up, leading to multiple charges and a conviction entered through a guilty plea in B.C. provincial court on April 15.
As part of the sentencing, Besseat was ordered to pay $29,000 to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, along with a $1,000 fine and a $150 victim fine surcharge.
The court also imposed a 12-month probation order, which includes a condition prohibiting Besseat from applying to the Guide Outfitters Association of British Columbia during that period.
“The BCCOS reminds people that should they witness what they believe to be illegal activity associated with hunting, fishing, or polluting, to please report the information promptly to the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277,” the post reads.
“Individuals who provide information that leads to the conviction of person(s) who have violated wildlife, fisheries, or environmental laws may be eligible for a reward of up to $2,000 through the BC Wildlife Federation.”