Wildlife Commissioner Faces Elk Poaching Allegations

Typically, wildlife officials are responsible for catching poachers who illegally hunt animals, but in this instance, one of these officials now faces multiple charges for illegally taking game.

Penalties for Poaching Elk in Michigan

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In Michigan, obtaining an elk tag requires applying for a limited, weighted lottery held each year from May 1 through June. Applications cost $5 and can be submitted online through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The drawing is highly competitive, and most licenses are reserved for Michigan residents.

Because these tags are hard to get, some hunters illegally take elk without authorization.

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In Michigan, poaching an elk is a misdemeanor offense with serious consequences. Penalties can include up to 180 days in jail, fines of $5,000 or more per animal, and the loss of hunting privileges for as long as 15 years. Offenders may also face additional fines ranging from $500 to $2,000 and the forfeiture of any equipment used, such as bows or firearms.

Read More: 35 Guns Seized After DNR ORV Stop

In Idaho, poaching elk is a serious offense, carrying fines of more than $10,000 per animal and the loss of hunting privileges ranging from one year to a lifetime. Repeated violations involving the illegal harvest of wildlife can even result in felony charges and significant prison time. One Idaho wildlife official is now awaiting his fate after being accused of illegally taking multiple bull elk.

Wildlife Official Arrested For Allegedly Poaching Two Elk

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According to MLive, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game Commissioner has been charged with multiple violations, including allegedly hunting without an elk tag, hunting from a motorized vehicle, shooting across a public highway, and trespassing on private property while hunting.

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Brody Harshbarger, who was appointed as commissioner by the state’s governor, has also been investigated over allegations that he was involved in the illegal harvesting of two bull elk. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.