Belleville man receives 10-year hunting suspension after injuring fellow hunter

A Belleville man has received a 10-year hunting suspension after injuring another hunter last October.

In a release, the Ministry of the Natural Resources and Forestry states William Johnston made a court appearance Monday in Belleville where he pleaded guilty to discharging a firearm without due care and attention or consideration for persons or property. The charges were brought under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act.

Court heard that on Oct. 7, 2017, Johnston was goose hunting with three other men in the area of Mitchell Side Road in Belleville.

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“During the hunt, Johnston discharged his shotgun, striking two hunting blinds beside him and injuring one of his fellow hunters with pellets,” the Ministry stated.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "During the hunt, Johnston discharged his shotgun, striking two hunting blinds beside him and injuring one of his fellow hunters with pellets," the Ministry stated.

Ministry conservation officers and the Belleville Police Service investigated the incident.

Along with the decade hunting ban, Johnston was also ordered to pay a $500 fine and must successfully complete the Ontario Hunter Education Course before being able to purchase another hunting licence.