NEWTON LAKE, IL -(Effingham Radio)- In early April the Illinois Department of Natural Resources had discovered that 6 White Pelicans Shot were at Newton Lake in Jasper County.
5 of the six were found dead, and one was wounded, currently seeking treatment at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine for treatment.
Following the incident IDNR asked for assistance from the public, and earlier today they have filed charges.
In the release IDNR stated, “Thanks to information provided by the public, charges have been filed against two Newton, Illinois teenagers in connection with the illegal shooting of white pelicans at Newton Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area, discovered on April 3.”
“Because juveniles are involved in the case, the names of the subjects are not being released at this time.”
The two male suspects involved in the shooting have been charged with
- Unlawful take of migratory waterfowl with a rifle
- Unlawful discharge of a firearm from a public roadway
- Unlawful firing of a rifle over/into waters of the state
- Unlawfully disturbing/harassing wild birds by the use or aid of a motor vehicle.