A Marystown man was handed a hefty penalty after he fired a rifle too close to a playground.

Gerard Bonnell was moose hunting in Mooring Cove on the Burin Peninsula on Oct. 9 of last year when he discharged the firearm.

He pleaded guilty in provincial court in Grand Bank to charges of discharging a firearm within 1,000 metres of a playground and not exercising reasonable care for the safety of others.

Bonnell was fined $1,000 and is prohibited from hunting moose and caribou for five years. 

The high-powered rifle used in the offence was forfeited to the Crown. An adult male moose was also seized.

The public is encouraged to report suspected illegal fishing and hunting activity. Information from the public plays a significant role in assisting investigations. Report suspicious activity anonymously at any time by calling 1-877-820-0999 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous reports can be made online at www.nlcrimestoppers.ca or www.stoppoaching.ca.