A Statesboro dentist was cited Tuesday after reportedly killing three baby Canada geese with a broom.
Dr. Ricky Lane, of a Shelter Point Road address, is charged with violation of Georgia Code 27-3-22, “unlawful hunting/possession of birds or parts,” according to a copy of a citation written by Georgia Department of Natural Resources Ranger First-Class Jason Miller. The charge requires a court appearance.
Miller was unavailable for comment Friday and did not immediately respond to messages left, but the Statesboro Herald obtained a copy of the citation from the Bulloch County Clerk of Courts Office.
Bulloch County Humane Enforcement Supervisor Joey Sanders said humane officers responded to the scene, on Bermuda Run Road behind Lane’s office, where complainants stated they witnessed Lane striking the goslings with a broom.
The Canada geese, adults and goslings, have been observed in a small pond between office complexes and a grocery store.
Sanders turned the case over to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
Lane, 57, did not return several messages Friday seeking comment, but Sanders said Lane told officers the geese were a nuisance and he was aiming the broom at two adult geese, but accidentally hit the goslings.
Miller reported on the citation that Lane admitted to the act/ He reportedly killed two goslings at the scene and a third later died of critical injuries. Sanders said a fourth gosling was rescued and is being rehabilitated.
Lane is required to attend Bulloch County State Court to respond to the citation July 15, according to the citation.
 
Herald reporter Holli Deal Saxon may be reached at 912-489-9414.