Done with this one. Delete me.

[bogey1]

he could have been a decent guy about it and wasn't.

Now that's laughable.

[arrski]

Although I've never been, I plan to go to Wicen's soon.

http://www.wicenshootingrange.com/index.cfm

[Soup76]

If you're willing to travel into the PRNJ...the ranges at Fort Dix might be an option.

[jakebrake]

Although I've never been, I plan to go to Wicen's soon.

http://www.wicenshootingrange.com/index.cfm

actually, a rather decent place.

[jakebrake]

If you're willing to travel into the PRNJ...the ranges at Fort Dix might be an option.

yes....that will end well.

[greenjohn88]

It's a sad state of affairs when the SGL ranges are some of the best in the region, even with their overbearing restrictions.

The rapid fire rules, machine gun bans, silhouette bans, first time fees, virtually invite-only membership, overbearing/uneducated/selfimportant RSOs, etc. typical of a private range in PA is beyond acceptable.

[PA-Joe]

There are a number of State Gameland Ranges in NEPA. You need to buy a range permit from the PA Game Commission. However, most of these also prohibit shotguns.

[Remington788]

What does the ticket say you did?

[God's Country]

i'm going to go out on a limb and say that legal advice was worth exactly what you paid for it.

[MT1]

If anyone is still interested, I received a $284.50 ticket in the mail. 10 days to respond or they will issue a warrant. Highway robbery.

So.. I talked to my mother about it. She is a former paralegal at a large law firm and still has contact with one of the partners. By my understanding of what he is saying, considering I did not violate and local, state or federal laws, it is a simple breach of contract. And unless they can come up with some magic evidence that my breach of contract cost them money or damages, there is no case. I will review the entire rules and regulations and verify tonight. But he seemed certain I will be let off.

This the best part of this story yet. Sounds like your lawyer is an idiot. Title 17 of PA Code establishes rules and regulations for DCNR and violations are a chargeable offense.

Breach of contract? WTF? When you commit an offense and get caught you get a fine. Failure to educate yourself and understand the rules is not a defense to a violation. If that was the case everyone would shrug their shoulders and say "I didn't know", and there would be no way to enforce any law. I'm willing to bet the range rules were clearly posted on a bulletin board that you walked right past on your way to the range. If their rules are posted like those on PGC ranges, they even state violations will result in a fine.

There is no magic evidence needed to support DNCR's case against you. Shotguns tear up the backboards at a faster rate than centerfire (there's the damage you say needs to be proven) and you were using a shotgun. DNCR and PGC established their rules, got them in PA code, and have been enforcing them for many years. Challenge if you want but you will not be the first to lose.

Don't take my comments as a personal attack. They are just the facts as I see them (and most likely DNCR and the magistrate when you fight the fine). Range regulations are created to preserve shooting opportunities for all and ensure a safe range environment. I don't have any sympathy for those that ignore the rules and then plead ignorance. Pay your fine and consider it a learning experience.