Investigation began after bear’s radio collar transmitted mortality signal, LDWF says
A Monterey man surrendered to the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office on Monday for allegedly killing a Louisiana black bear that was part of LDWF’s Black Bear Program, according to a press release from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
Agents with LDWF had obtained an arrest warrant on Nov. 14 for Duell Moreland, 23, for his role in the incident, the release states.
Agents started the investigation after the radio collar on the bear started transmitting a mortality signal, which occurs after a certain amount of inactivity, according to the release.
Agents pinpointed the collar’s location off of Pete Davis Road in Wildsville in Concordia Parish, next to a burn pile containing bear parts, the release states.
Two leaseholders of the property told agents Moreland was responsible, and his abandoned truck was found there, the release states. Additionally, agents seized a rifle and crossbow from Moreland’s truck and a knife at the scene, according to the release.
If guilty, Moreland faces a $900-$950 fine and up to 120 days in jail, and he could be subjected to a civil restitution fee up to $10,000 for the replacement value of the bear, the release states.
According to the LDWF website, the Louisiana black bear has been listed on the Federal Threatened and Endangered Species List since 1992. Killing a Louisiana black bear could be a violation of both state law and the federal Endangered Species Act. Violators are subject to penalties of up to $50,000 and six months in jail.
Adam Einck, spokesperson for LDWF, said Moreland is currently facing only state charges.
“At this point in time, he’s only been charged with a state citation,” Einck said. “It could always be changed to a federal charge later.”
