Montana Officials Smack 6 Suspects for Multi-Year Elk and Mule Deer Poaching Scheme

A half dozen suspects have been hit with a plethora of charges after Montana wardens uncovered an illegal killing spree that took place over a four-year period. Between the years of 2020 and 2024, six individuals poached numerous elk and mule deer resulting in 34 total charges and nearly a dozen trophy mounts being confiscated.

A confidential informant served as the canary in the coal mine after alerting Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks wardens about a group of both residents and non-residents who were believed to be illegally taking large game in the Bull Mountains. The confidential tipster spurred a months-long investigation that led to the discovery of multiple large elk that were killed in Hunting District 590 with the necessary 590-20 elk permit. Additionally, the wardens were also able to uncover a number of illegal large mule deer killings, ballooning the case into Washington state as well.

Montana wardens made the trip to Washington with search warrants in hand and managed to seize a number of mounts of the unlawfully killed elk and mule deer. Heading back home to Montana, the search warrants continued to be executed on local residents as well, resulting in the total seizure of 11 mounts for use as evidence in the case.

With all of the evidence wardens believed they needed, the suspects were issued a total of 34 charges along with 12 warnings for their role in the case. The charges, which will be processed by the Musselshell County Justice Court, total nearly $23,000 in bond and restitution. 

While much of the details surrounding the incidents remain under lock and key for the moment, FWP wardens extended their thanks for cooperating agencies such as the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife along with local law enforcement who helped button up this case.

“This investigation could not be possible without the assistance of these agencies,” said J.D. Douglas, FWP Assistant Chief of Law Enforcement. “This is yet another example of the tenacity and dedication of Montana game wardens to produce quality investigations and hold violators accountable.”

As the case approaches court appearances, we expect more details to come available.