Little Rhody Beagle Club, Forward, Violating FIFRA, Rhode Island 2007

South Kingstown, RI – The Little Rhody Beagle Club, Inc. was sentenced in February 2007 after pleading guilty to federal charges stemming from the illegal and deadly use of the highly toxic pesticide Carbofuran. The club, dedicated to training Beagle dogs for hunting, systematically poisoned predatory animals found near its property, resulting in a federal investigation and significant penalties.

The case unfolded after the discovery of multiple animal carcasses bordering the club’s fenced perimeter in 2003 and 2004. Investigators found evidence of both coyotes and turkey vultures among the dead animals. A subsequent investigation revealed the grim method employed by the club: hollowed-out eggs filled with Carbofuran, a potent pesticide, were being used as bait. Autopsies confirmed that the animals had been fatally poisoned by the substance.

The poisoned eggs weren’t confined to areas outside the property line; investigators discovered them both inside and outside the club’s fencing, indicating a deliberate effort to target wildlife in the surrounding area. The use of Carbofuran in this manner is a blatant violation of federal law, designed to protect both animals and the environment. The club’s actions weren’t simply negligent; they were a calculated attempt to eliminate perceived threats to their hunting dogs’ training exercises.

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Legal Ramifications

On October 17, 2006, the Little Rhody Beagle Club and a club officer, Forward (full name not released), were charged with five counts of violating the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) – specifically 7 U.S.C. 136j(a)(2)(G) – and one count of violating the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703). Both the club and Forward entered guilty pleas on November 16, 2006.

The sentencing, handed down on February 16, 2007, included a 12-month probation period for the Little Rhody Beagle Club, a hefty federal fine of $18,145, and restitution of $1,855 to a neighboring property owner whose dogs fell ill after ingesting the pesticide. A $175 special assessment fee was also levied. Forward received a 12-month probation sentence and was ordered to pay a $10,000 federal fine. Crucially, the plea agreement included stipulations preventing Forward from holding a membership or officer position within the club for nine months and one year respectively, and a ban on firearms on club premises.

Key Facts

Defendant: Little Rhody Beagle Club, Inc.
Location: South Kingstown, Rhode Island
Crime: Illegal poisoning of wildlife with Carbofuran
Pesticide Used: Carbofuran (placed inside hollowed-out eggs)
Victims: Coyotes, Turkey Vultures, Neighbor’s dogs
Laws Violated: 7 U.S.C. 136j(a)(2)(G) (FIFRA), 16 U.S.C. 703 (Migratory Bird Treaty Act)
Penalties: $18,145 fine (club), $10,000 fine (Forward), 12 months probation (both), Restitution ($1,855), Restrictions on club membership/officership for Forward, firearms ban on club property.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences associated with the illegal use of pesticides and the importance of adhering to federal wildlife protection laws. The EPA’s criminal enforcement program continues to prioritize investigations into such violations, ensuring accountability for those who endanger both animal populations and the broader environment.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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