Any person who is responsible for causing or allowing an unauthorized spill, release, or discharge of material into or on any land or any ground or surface water or into the air that results in the death of a wild animal and that necessitates an investigation by the division of wildlife, or who violates section 1531.02 of the Revised Code in a manner that necessitates an investigation by the division regarding the death of a wild animal, is liable to the division for costs incurred in the investigation if the person pleads guilty to or is convicted of causing or allowing the unauthorized spill, release, or discharge or a violation of section 1531.02 of the Revised Code. The costs may include wages and benefits of employees of the division. The chief of the division of wildlife or the chief's authorized representative shall bring a civil action against the responsible person to recover those costs.
R.C. §1531.202