Nov. 25, 2008
Vol. 38, No. 534

For more information, contact Sgt. Gregory Rhodes, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement, 302-542-6102 or 302-739-9913, or Joanna Wilson, Public Affairs, 302-739-9902.

Wilmington Man Arrested by Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Sentenced to Five Years

A Wilmington man with a felony record who gave a false name to Fish and Wildlife Enforcement agents when he was arrested for hunting violations has been sentenced to five years in prison.

Steven M. Castura, age 35, of Wilmington, was arrested Jan. 26, 2008 on charges of trespassing to hunt, hunting without a valid license and not wearing hunter orange on his head, back and chest as required by law. At the time of his arrest, Castura gave agents the name Steven M. Flanagan and signed documents with that name. Agents also at that time seized a 12-gauge shotgun from Castura.

After authorities discovered Castura’s true identity, additional charges were filed. Following a Sept. 9 trial at which Castura was found guilty, Superior Court Judge Jane Brady on Nov. 21 handed down a sentence totaling five years for possession of a deadly weapon by a person prohibited, criminal impersonation, second degree forgery and violating probation. Castura was also fined $150 plus court costs for the three original hunting-related charges.