In 2023, Fish and Wildlife Officers were able to solve several cases with help from the public.

Here is one of those cases.

SOLVED CASE: ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE

On the evening of October 14, 2023, Rocky Mountain House Officers received a Report A Poacher call where witnesses observed individuals illegally harvesting a mule deer. Fish and Wildlife Officers responded to the call and located the subjects and the illegally harvested mule deer. The investigation revealed that the mule deer was shot from a vehicle, during a closed season, on private land without permission, and within 200 yards of an occupied building. Officers seized the deer, firearms, and items used in the commission of the offence, then used the Fish and Wildlife Forensics Lab to compare and match DNA.

On January 26, 2024, the two individuals pled guilty in Rocky Mountain House Court. The subject who shot the deer was sentenced to a $7,000 fine and a 15-year behavioural Judicial Order prohibiting him from hunting, possessing a rifle or bow, accompanying anyone who is hunting, and must immediately report coming into possession of any wildlife. The subject who was driving the vehicle and assisted with the hunt was sentenced to a $4,100 fine and a one-year hunting suspension.

Anyone with information of suspected poaching is encouraged to contact Report A Poacher by phone at 1-800-642-3800 or online at www.alberta.ca/report-poacher.aspx. All reporters can remain anonymous and could be eligible for a reward.

REPORT A POACHER NOW. CALL TOLL-FREE OR REPORT ONLINE 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK.

All calls are kept strictly confidential, and the information you provide can lead to an arrest, fines, and jail time. The Report A Poacher program is delivered in joint partnership between Alberta Justice and Solicitor General and Alberta Conservation Association.