Mexico Fines Firefighters $2,300 for Bear Abuse A shocking photo of firefighters and civil defense personnel holding down a young, bound bear and pulling its ears has sparked outrage in Mexico and prompted fines for those involved. The environmental crimes prosecutor for the northern border state of Coahuila says the 3½ -year-old bear survived the incident, though it suffered wounds to its paws and mouth. Prosecutor Javier de Jesus Rodriguez says a prolonged drought has led increasing numbers of bears into urban areas. Rodriguez said Friday that emergency personnel will be fined about 30,000 pesos ($2,300) for animal abuse and failure to follow department rules. Rodriguez said the bear will be released, and that special dogs are being imported to handle the problem by driving away the bears.