Minors should not hunt in residential neighborhood

I have lived in Eastpoint for the past 30 years at the same address. Several years ago, my yard and adjoining property on North Bayshore Drive was declared a Certified Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. Therefore, I do not expect to see young boys hunting through my yard and local neighborhood as they are presently doing on a regular basis.

I would like to point out to the parents of these minors that it is against the law for a minor under the age of 16 years to be in the possession of a firearm, which includes BB guns, and to hunt in a populated neighborhood. Florida Statute 790.22(1)(2) says:

“(1) The use for any purpose whatsoever of BB guns, air or gas-operated devices, by any minor under the age of 16 years is prohibited unless such use is under the supervision and in the presence of an adult who is acting with consent of the minor’s parent

“(2) Any adults responsible for the welfare of any child under the age of 16 years who knowingly permits such child to use or have in his or her possession any BB gun, air or gas-operated gun, electric weapon or device or firearm in violation of the provision of subsection (1) of this section commits a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in 775.082 or Section 775.083.”

The penalty for an adult who is responsible for a minor who is caught with a BB gun is subject to section 775.083 Fines (1) (e), F.S., which reads:

“(1)(e) …$500.00, when the conviction is of a misdemeanor of the second degree…”

I can assure the parents of these minors that when these minors come down Hickory Dip Road or North Bayshore Drive with their guns, the sheriff will be called.

Sincerely,

Shirley N. Taylor