CPW Nets 4 Violations During Lamar Checkpoint Operation

Parks and Wildlife Officials Waiting to Check Vehicles

CPW conducts Wildlife Checkpoint in Lamar

LAMAR, Colo. – Colorado Parks and Wildlife officers stopped nearly 2,500 vehicles during a wildlife checkpoint that occurred Nov. 5 and 6 on Highway 287, just outside of Lamar. The two-day operation netted four violations.

During operations all eastbound vehicles on Highway 287, with the exception of commercial traffic, were briefly stopped. Those who had been hunting or fishing were diverted into the Port of Entry weigh station for further inspection. Those who had not were quickly sent on their way. Only 72 vehicles had passengers who had been hunting or fishing or had possession of wildlife.

Vehicles sent into the Port of Entry went through compliance checks regarding applicable game laws. CPW officers also gathered information about the field, hunting and fishing satisfaction and answered questions. Four citations were issued, three for wildlife violations and one for driving while under the influence of drugs. The later violation was handled by Colorado State Patrol.

“The low number of violations just goes to show how the majority of our hunters and anglers are responsible, ethical and compliant with the law,” said Check Station Supervisor and Area 12 Wildlife Manager Travis Black. “We are very pleased with the outcome.”

The wildlife violations included the illegal transport of wildlife, failure to leave evidence of sex and species, and illegal possession of wildlife. One man is being investigated for killing a mule deer out of season without the proper tag. The deer had an antler spread greater than 22 inches, making it a “Samson” animal, which carries an automatic fine of $10,000. CPW seized all illegally harvested wildlife and all incidents are still under investigation.

This was the first wildlife checkpoint to be held in this area in more than two decades. However, CPW wants to remind the public that checkpoints like this can occur anytime and anywhere in the state.

“Our wildlife is one of Colorado’s most precious natural resources and we take our job of protecting and preserving it very seriously,” said Black. “The illegal taking of wildlife steals wildlife from ethical hunters and from the people of Colorado.”

Approximately 85 Colorado Parks and Wildlife employees participated in the 30-hour check station. Colorado State Patrol, Colorado Department of Transportation, the Prowers County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service also provided support during the operation.
To report a suspected wildlife violation, contact your local CPW office, wildlife officer or call Operation Game Thief at 1-877-265-6648. Callers may remain anonymous.