Feds Boost Reward In Louisiana Black Bear Killing

MARKSVILLE, La. (AP) — Another $5,000 from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has been added to the reward available for information on the killer of a Louisiana black bear found on a trail for all-terrain vehicles in Avoyelles Parish.

The federal reward was added Thursday to $1,000 offered by state wildlife officials. The bear was shot Tuesday on Avoyelles Parish School Board property about 20 miles northwest of Marksville.

Louisiana black bears have been protected since 1992 under state and federal law. Violators can get up to six months in jail, with up to $50,000 in fines and $10,000 in restitution.

Tipsters can call the Louisiana Operation Game Thief hotline at 1-800-442-2511 or use Louisiana's tip411 program. Text LADWF and the tip to 847411, or use a free "LADWF Tips" iPhone app.