Man charged after cougar harassed with a slingshot in Banff

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A man is facing two charges after a cougar was allegedly harassed with a slingshot in Banff National Park. Parks Canada says in a statement that its wardens received a report from the public on May 31 about a cougar being bothered by a visitor near Lake Louise, Alta. Officials say the cougar was on the wrong side of the wildlife fencing along the Trans-Canada Highway when it was allegedly harassed. Wardens were able to find and arrest one person after receiving a vehicle description and photos.

Charges were laid against a Saskatchewan man for disturbing wildlife in a national park and possession of a firearm a slingshot is considered a firearm under the Canada National Parks Act. The charges, which carry maximum penalties of $25,000 and $100,000, are to be heard in Canmore provincial court in November.