Group cited for baiting deer
Published: December 23, 2009
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share thisSix Luzerne County residents, including the County Treasurer, were cited by Game Commission Officer Michael Webb on Friday for using bait to lure deer during hunting season on a Ridge Road property.
According to the citation, an oat mix was used to bait deer on Luzerne County Treasurer Michael L. Morreale’s property in Forest Lake Township on Nov. 30 and Dec. 5.
Webb’s citation noted that Morreale, 75, of Wyoming, and four others did unlawfully, hunt or aid, abet, assist or conspire to hunt any game or wildlife (deer) through the use of any artificial or natural bait on Dec. 5.
Nicholas Morreale, 19, Pittston, also was cited for the unlawful taking of game killed through the use of bait on Nov. 30, plus a citation was issued for the use of the bait.
The baiting offense carries a $100-$300 penalty if found guilty. Morreale and the others cited for violations have 10 days to respond to the charge.
Edythe Lorraine Vann, 54, of Dallas, John Vito Morreale, 55, of Duryea; David Morreale, 50, of Pittston; and Michael C. Morreale, 56, Dallas, were also cited for the use of bait on Dec. 5.
The citations were filed before Magisterial District Court Judge Jeffrey Hollister in Montrose.
“From what I saw last year and this year, (baiting) is very, very problematic and prolific,” said Webb. For example, Webb said, if he gets 10 baiting complaints, he’s usually able to find bait six out of the 10 times.
“The minute somebody sees or finds bait, they should be calling us,” said Webb.
