9.906 — HUNTING ON PROTECTED LAND/STATE PARKS
Violations of "Statute 9.906" results in an Class F Felony
(a) Definitions
Hunting on protected land refers to the act of hunting, capturing, or attempting to capture wildlife on lands that are designated as protected, including state parks, nature reserves, and wildlife management areas, under San Andreas law. These areas are legally restricted from hunting activities to preserve wildlife habitats, promote conservation, and maintain the ecological balance of these sensitive environments.
Protected Land: Land areas officially designated by state or federal authorities, including state parks, national parks, wildlife refuges, or other conservation areas where hunting and trapping are prohibited.
State Parks: Public land areas designated for preservation and recreation, which may also include areas specifically set aside for wildlife protection. Hunting is typically prohibited unless otherwise authorized.
Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): Areas specifically established for the management, conservation, and enhancement of wildlife and their habitats where hunting may be regulated but generally restricted in certain zones to prevent harm to endangered species or habitats.
(b) Elements
To establish the offense of hunting on protected land or state parks, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt the following elements:
The defendant knowingly entered or remained on protected land or a state park without the necessary legal permits or authorization.
The defendant engaged in hunting, trapping, or capturing wildlife on the protected land or state park.
The defendant did not have special authorization, such as a state-issued permit or written permission from land management authorities, to hunt in the designated protected area.
The defendant was aware or should have been aware that hunting was prohibited in the area where the offense occurred.
(c) Defenses
Defenses against a charge of hunting on protected land or state parks may include:
The defendant had permission or a valid permit to hunt on the protected land, which was either not recognized or improperly issued by an authorized entity.
The defendant was unaware that they were on protected land or a state park due to inadequate signage or lack of notification.
The defendant mistakenly believed they were hunting in an area where hunting was allowed based on the location or boundaries as marked.
The defendant was engaged in lawful hunting activities on adjacent land but unintentionally crossed into protected land without realizing it.
(d) Aggravating Factors
The court may consider the following aggravating factors when determining the severity of the offense:
The defendant has a history of previous violations related to hunting on protected land or state parks, indicating a pattern of disregarding regulations.
The defendant was involved in the illegal hunting of an endangered or protected species within the protected area, escalating the environmental impact of the offense.
The hunting activities resulted in significant damage to the ecosystem, including harm to wildlife habitats or the illegal killing of rare or endangered species.
The defendant engaged in hunting activities during restricted periods, such as during breeding seasons, which posed a greater risk to the species' survival.
(e) Enforcement
Enforcement of hunting regulations on protected land or state parks is conducted by San Andreas Park Rangers, Wildlife Officers, and other law enforcement personnel who monitor these areas for illegal activity. Regular patrols, wildlife surveys, and environmental inspections help ensure compliance with hunting laws and protect the natural resources within these areas.
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