Public assistance results in four individuals being charged with alleged wildlife crimes

On Oct. 14, Idaho Fish and Game requested the public’s help in identifying individuals captured on a motion-activated camera who were suspected of involvement in wildlife crimes in the Coeur d’Alene area.

Thanks to numerous tips from the public, Fish and Game conservation officers conducted an investigation that resulted in four individuals—two Idaho residents and two nonresidents—being charged with multiple alleged wildlife violations.

The individuals face charges that include:

• Taking big game (black bear) during unlawful hours
• Possession of unlawfully taken big game (black bear)
• Maintaining and hunting over an unlawful bear bait
• Hunting big game (deer/elk) with bait
• Hunting big game (deer/elk) without licenses or tags
• Hunting big game (deer/elk) with an unlawful weapon
• Hunting upland game (wild turkey) with bait
• Possession of unlawfully taken upland game (wild turkey)

Because the case remains open with charges only recently filed against the defendants, more information is not available at this time. Additional details will be released upon conclusion of the case.

Fish and Game thanks the public for being diligent in reporting potential wildlife crimes and helping to preserve, protect, perpetuate and manage the incredible fish and wildlife to which Idaho is home.

Anyone with information about a potential wildlife crime is encouraged to call the Citizens Against Poaching hotline at 1-800-632-5999. Calls may remain confidential and anonymous, and reports can also be submitted online.

Citizens Against Poaching monetary rewards are available for individuals who provide credible, detailed information which significantly helps to identify person(s) involved and which leads to any relevant charges for a wildlife crime.

For more news and updates, visit the Panhandle Region Facebook page or contact the Panhandle Regional Office at (208) 769-1414.