Law Enforcement Headlines

Public Safety - High speeds identified in fatal snowmobile accidents

MADISON -- Speed was a critical factor in five fatal snowmobile accidents that occurred the weekend of Feb. 17 to 19, one of which included an eight snowmobile pile-up, according to state recreational safety officials.

“I can’t help but think that some of these deaths could’ve been prevented, if people had simply slowed down,” said Gary Eddy, Department of Natural Resources snowmobile and ATV administrator (pictured right). “We need people to think about and protect their own safety, ride at reasonable speeds and keep their alcohol consumption to a minimum when driving. The safest policy is to not drink alcohol at all when driving. Ask any of the people affected by these deaths, it’s just not worth it. (read full news release)

Enforcement - State, federal and tribal wardens cooperate on wolf trapping case

Endangered species violation took place on Menominee reservation

SHAWANO/MENOMINEE, Wis. -- A Green Bay man, Robert A. Roland, 35, pleaded no contest in Shawano/Menominee County Court on Oct. 3, to illegally trapping and killing a gray wolf in violation of the Endangered Species Act.

The court fined Roland $1,989, for unintentionally killing an endangered or threatened species and revoked his trapping privileges for two years, and his hunting and fishing privileges for one year. Wisconsin’s maximum fine for unintentionally killing an endangered or threatened species is $2,000 plus cost. (read full news release)

Education - Now is time to plan for boating safety courses

MADISON – With more than 15,000 inland lakes, 42,000 miles of rivers, and 1,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, Wisconsin’s waterways are a focal point of outdoor recreation. As the estimated 1.5 million boaters gear up to use these waters this year, courtesy, safety and education are important issues. (read full news release)