Four Arrested In Tulare County Deer Poaching Case
Four San Joaquin Valley residents are facing serious charges in numerous alleged deer poaching violations. Here’s more from Fresno-based TV outlet Your Central Valley:
Officials said that investigators suspected approximately 30 deer were unlawfully taken by four people over the past three years. Many of the animals were allegedly killed out of season, using spotlights and other illegal methods.
During the investigation, officers said they uncovered both digital and physical evidence indicating deer tags were reused multiple times. In one case, a tag was allegedly being fraudulently duplicated after already being used to harvest four deer.
A search resulted in the recovery of numerous deer skulls, a large quantity of processed venison, and a firearm without a serial number.
CDFW also posted the following on Facebook:
Wildlife Officers in Tulare County recently served search warrants and made arrests in Visalia and Farmersville as part of an investigation into egregious deer poaching.
The warrants were served on March 13 following a multi-year investigation spanning Fresno, Tulare and Kern Counties (deer zones D7, D8 and D9). Investigators suspect approximately 30 deer were unlawfully taken by four individuals over the past three years. Many of the animals were allegedly killed out of season, using spotlights, and with other illegal methods.
During the investigation, officers uncovered both digital and physical evidence indicating deer tags were reused multiple times. In one case, a tag was fraudulently duplicated after already being used to harvest four deer.
Searches resulted in the recovery of numerous deer skulls, a large quantity of processed venison and a firearm without a serial number. CDFW K-9s played a key role in the operation — K-9 Shep alerted to the concealed firearm hidden under a couch, while K-9 Judd located a buried deer head.
This investigation was supported in part by information provided through CalTIP (Californians Turn In Poachers and Polluters), a confidential tip program that plays a critical role in protecting California’s natural resources.
The case has been referred to the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
Wildlife poaching undermines conservation efforts and the lawful traditions of hunting. CDFW remains committed to holding violators accountable and protecting California’s natural resources.
To report violations anonymously, call 1-888-334-CALTIP (2258). Anyone with a cell phone may send an anonymous tip to CDFW by texting “CALTIP”, followed by a space and the message, to 847411 (tip411).
