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Man accused of killing a bear outside legal hunting season
Florida Fish and Wildlife officers arrested James Goodspeed after he allegedly shot and killed a bear on private property in Grand Island, authorities said. The bear, which was killed in front of her cub, had to be euthanized, though the cub survived.
EUSTIS, Fla. - Florida Fish and Wildlife officers arrested James Goodspeed, 60, after he allegedly shot and killed a bear on private property in Grand Island, authorities said.
The bear, which was killed in front of her cub, had to be euthanized, though the cub survived.
The backstory:
Neighbors said they enjoyed having the bears in the area and argued the animals would not have been a problem if nearby residents had secured their trash.
One family whose property was involved is pressing charges against Goodspeed for illegally taking the bear and for trespass by projectile.
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Goodspeed told officers he fired because he feared for his safety, claiming the bear charged him, though investigators noted the animal was shot in the head in a location inconsistent with his account.
Authorities also reported that neighbors said Goodspeed had previously expressed a desire to "take care" of bears in the area.
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To legally hunt bears in Florida, hunters must have a permit and follow designated hunting zones.
What's next:
Goodspeed has bonded out of jail and is scheduled to return to court Jan. 5.
The Source: This story was written based on information shared by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.