Louisiana Hunter Cited After ‘Shot in the Dark’ Goes Wrong

The outdoor spirit is alive and well in Louisiana from Gueydan where they're always talking about ducks. To Lincoln and Ouachita Parishes in the northern part of the state where the subject of deer hunting is almost an everyday topic of conversation. We love to hunt in Louisiana.

For most of us hunting involves not only having the proper equipment but having a proper understanding of what the Louisiana Department of Wildlife has set down for the rules or guidelines of each specific hunting seasons. The mission of LDF is to make sure that we maintain our place in the world as The Sportsman's Paradise. That means great stewardship and respect for the land. 

For those who choose to disrespect nature and the laws that society has put in place for the betterment of all, justice usually comes swift and firm, when it's time to lay out the punishment for a misdeed in the outdoors.

Earlier this month a man operating in Palmetto Island State Park noticed an ominous silhouette in the fading light. The man, thinking his prey was a large wild hog, open fire and dropped his target. However, it turns out the "dark silhouette" was not that of a hog but instead that of a female black bear.

Department of Wildlife Officials say the man in question was not authorized to hunt at night and he also failed to properly identify his target. Both of those "mistakes" can lead to deadly consequences. Especially shooting at an unconfirmed target, which is blatantly irresponsible.

Agents have charged Shannon R Parker of Abbeville in connection with the case. If convicted Parker could be subject to fines of up to $950 and up to 120 days in jail. There could be additional fines and jail time added depending on how the case plays out. Parker could also be on the hook for civil restitution of $10,000 for the replacement value of the bear.