NCJ Number
153225
Journal
Police: The Law Enforcement Magazine Volume: 18 Issue: 11 Dated: (November 1994) Pages: 44-52
Date Published
1994
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This article describes the circumstances, investigation, trial, and sentencing in a case that involved the poaching of elk in California.
Abstract
An informant came forward to bring the focus of the case on four suspects. Enough information was collected to obtain a search warrant and subsequently an arrest warrant, although the suspects were not caught with any of the hides, antlers, significant quantities of meat, or firearms matching the shell casing found at the crime scene. Lab work was conducted to confirm that the blood, hair, and tissue found at the suspects' residences was elk. Felony conspiracy was charged against the four suspects. Additionally, misdemeanor charges were filed for the illegal take of game, waste of carcass, and destroying evidence. An added count of waste of carcass was brought against one suspect for 11 rotten ducks believed by investigators to have been killed illegally. All defendants were placed on felony probation for 5 years after being convicted, during which time a $5,000 fine was to be paid. One suspect was committed to jail for 45 days, along with 500 hours of community service in an activity related to wildlife. The possibility of additional legislation in the area of wildlife and elk poaching is discussed.