AUGUSTA, Maine — In one of the state’s largest recent wildlife cases, game wardens executed six search warrants, including simultaneous searches at three residences, uncovering a pattern of repeated intentional wildlife violations on Mount Desert Island.
The investigation led to charges against five people, with the primary offender facing 60 criminal and civil violations.
The case began when a community member reported a suspected illegal deer kill to local wardens.
“It’s a rewarding feeling when you dive into a case like this and can be the voice for wildlife,” said Warden Camden Akins. “Wildlife can’t call and ask for help when someone is taking advantage of our natural resources.
That’s why it’s so important when members of the public speak up, we can step in and protect the wildlife we all cherish.”
The main violator received a 13-year hunting license suspension, nearly $10,000 in fines, and a 30-day jail sentence.
This deliberate poaching incident serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting Maine’s wildlife.
The Maine Warden Service encourages anyone suspecting illegal activity involving natural resources to report it to their local game warden.
This article was first published by WGME on 3 Appril 2025.
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