Two men who were accused of cheating in a Lake Erie fishing tournament last year have been sentenced to jail time. Jacob Runyan, 43, and Chase Cominsky, 36, were caught stuffing weights into their prized catches to win the tournament. The men were charged with four counts, including cheating and illegal animal ownership.
Sentencing and Punishment
The men recently appeared in court to receive their sentences. They were each sentenced to 10 days in jail and 1 1/2 years of probation. Additionally, they were ordered to pay large fines.
Guilty Plea
The sentencing comes two months after the men pleaded guilty to one felony count of cheating and one misdemeanor count of illegal animal ownership. In exchange for their pleas, officials dropped the other two charges against them.
Apology
During the hearing, Runyan apologized for his actions, calling it “the most ignorant decision I’ve ever made in my life.” Both men began serving their jail sentences immediately after the hearing.
The Lake Erie Walleye Trail in Cleveland’s Gordon Park is a popular fishing tournament in the area. Cheating in these types of tournaments can have serious consequences, including criminal charges and jail time. The sentencing of Runyan and Cominsky sends a message that cheating in these events will not be tolerated.
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