Scott Steer, previously convicted of illegal sea cucumber harvesting, has been sentenced to an additional six months in jail for obstructing a Fisheries and Oceans Canada investigation.

Continued Legal Battles

The sentencing, delivered by Judge Tamara Hodge in Nanaimo Provincial Court on May 1, 2026, will be served concurrently with Steer’s existing six-year term. The case centers around Steer’s deliberate obstruction of a DFO investigation following an initial conviction in July 2025 for illegal harvesting and sale of sea cucumbers.

Details of the Obstruction

The obstruction occurred during incidents in October 2020 and September 2021. DFO officer Ryan Moulder attempted to serve Steer with notices requiring him to maintain and provide accurate fishing records. Steer repeatedly refused to cooperate, refusing to sign the notices and interrupting the process.

Evidence Presented in Court

Steer failed to comply with a deadline of October 1, 2021, for submitting the requested records. Officer Moulder also observed a vehicle equipped with a hydroponic arm and numerous commercial fishing totes on Steer’s property, further implicating him.

Court's Reasoning

Judge Hodge emphasized Steer’s lack of mitigating factors and his decades-long pattern of deliberately avoiding compliance with the Fisheries Act. She also noted his lack of remorse and failure to take responsibility for his actions.

Arguments from Counsel

Crown counsel Ian McFadgen argued for the additional six-month term, citing Steer’s extensive criminal record, which includes 34 convictions dating back to 2008. Defense counsel David Ennis requested a more lenient sentence, citing Steer’s time under house arrest, divorce proceedings, and financial hardship. Ennis also challenged the admissibility of financial documents, but the judge ruled them admissible.

Financial Penalties and Implications

Despite acknowledging Steer’s financial difficulties, Judge Hodge determined the severity of the offenses warranted the additional jail time, alongside the existing $1.1 million fine. His wife, Melissa Steer, was also implicated in the illegal activities.

The court’s decision underscores the seriousness of fisheries violations and serves as a deterrent to others. It also highlights the challenges faced by DFO in enforcing regulations and the importance of cooperation within the fishing industry.