Four men convicted for illegal spotlighting and firearms offences in Omeo

Four men from the Latrobe Valley in Victoria have been convicted in the Magistrates Court for illegal spotlighting and firearms offences near Omeo.

Four men from the Latrobe Valley in Victoria have been convicted in the Magistrates Court for illegal spotlighting and firearms offences near Omeo.

All four men received convictions for spotlighting and firearm related offences, were ordered to pay a total of $2,200 and had their firearms, ammunition, thermal optics, spotlights, and Sambar and Hog Deer stag heads forfeited and destroyed.

Three of the men were issued with 12-month good behaviour bonds, while a fourth received a 12-month community corrections order.

Three of the men also had their firearms licences suspended and a fourth man was convicted for using a firearm while prohibited.

The Game Management Authority’s (GMA) Director of Compliance and Intelligence, Zac Powell, said the GMA executed search warrants on properties in Moe and Morwell in December 2022, as part of an investigation into reports of illegal spotlighting.

“The search of the properties and admissions from the men linked them to the illegal spotlighting reports, resulting in their arrest.”

Mr Powell said “Illegally spotlighting deer at night is dangerous and can put communities, properties and livestock at risk.”

“Those who break the law face significant fines and penalties including prosecution, having equipment confiscated and Game and Firearms Licences cancelled. In some cases, offenders may face jail terms.”

“Thank you to the community members and hunters who report illegal spotlighting to the GMA.”

Hunters and the public are urged to report illegal spotlighting to the GMA through its website at gma.vic.gov.au or by calling 136 186.

The GMA assesses all reports of illegal behaviour and works closely with its partner agencies to conduct enforcement and compliance operations across Victoria.