77.15.450 - Spotlighting big game -- Penalty. - Washington Statutes

Spotlighting big game — Penalty.

(1) A person is guilty of spotlighting big game in the second degree if the person hunts big game with the aid of a spotlight, other artificial light, or night vision equipment while in possession or control of a firearm, bow and arrow, or cross bow. For purposes of this section, "night vision equipment" includes electronic light amplification devices, thermal imaging devices, and other comparable equipment used to enhance night vision.

     (2) A person is guilty of spotlighting big game in the first degree if:

     (a) The person has any prior conviction for gross misdemeanor or felony for a crime under this title involving big game including but not limited to subsection (1) of this section or RCW 77.15.410; and

     (b) Within ten years of the date that such prior conviction was entered the person commits the act described by subsection (1) of this section.

     (3)(a) Spotlighting big game in the second degree is a gross misdemeanor. Upon conviction, the department shall revoke all hunting licenses and tags and order a suspension of the person's hunting privileges for two years.

     (b) Spotlighting big game in the first degree is a class C felony. Upon conviction, the department shall order suspension of all privileges to hunt wildlife for a period of ten years.

     (4) A person convicted under this section shall be assessed a criminal wildlife penalty assessment as provided in RCW 77.15.420.

[2005 c 406 § 6; 1998 c 190 § 27.]