VIDA - Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game wardens recently completed a multi-year investigation into the illegal killing of deer, antelope, and upland game birds in McCone County, resulting in over 100 seized animals, thousands of dollars in fines, and decades of lost privileges.
In 2024, wardens began actively investigating Vida-area landowner, Kelly Nelson, and the hunters who frequented his property. Montana residents as well as hunters from Washington, North Dakota, Wyoming, and Indiana hunted illegally on Nelson's farm and on neighboring properties.
Thirteen suspects were charged with committing more than 80 violations over the last decade in McCone County. The investigation that followed led to the seizure or surrender of over 100 deer and antelope mounts, antlers, and horns.
All told, 89 citations were issued which resulted in fines totaling $36,785, and a combined loss of 44 years of hunting privileges. In addition, three of the nonresident hunters received lifetime Montana hunting bans. A final hunter's case is awaiting a final resolution from the McCone County Attorney's office.
"McCone County is a special place with world class wildlife," said game warden John Huberty, who patrols McCone County. "These hunters displayed zero regard for ethical hunter behavior or the lawful pursuit of these animals; however, all but two of these subjects pled guilty to their offenses, were accountable, and cooperated with the investigation."
Under a plea agreement, Nelson, the landowner, was fined and lost his Montana hunting privileges for eight years.
Anyone with information about crimes involving fish, wildlife or park regulations can visit tipmont.mt.gov to provide details, call the FWP violation reporting hotline at 1-800-TIP-MONT (1-800-847-6668), or get in touch with their local warden. Folks providing information may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.