CPW Looks for Information on May 24 Poaching Incident

LA JUNTA – Colorado Parks and Wildlife is seeking information regarding three pronghorn bucks that were killed and abandoned the evening of May 24.

Located the following morning, two of the bucks were found approximately 75 yards east of Otero County Road 28 and were approximately one third of a mile south of the intersection of Otero County Road FF and 28.

The third buck was found 200 yards south of the other two in the east drainage ditch of Otero County Road 28.

All three bucks appear to have died from gunshot wounds, no meat was taken from any of them and their horns were not removed. The three bucks were just shot and left.

Individuals with information relating to this incident are encouraged to contact Operation Game Thief at (877) 265-6648 or the Lamar Colorado Parks and Wildlife Office at (719) 336-6600. A person who provides information that leads to the conviction of a poacher may receive a hunting license for the species involved, under the Turn In Poachers (TIP) Program.

Individuals who kill big game animals in Colorado and abandon the carcass can face felony charges. If convicted, individuals may permanently lose hunting and fishing privileges and could face time in prison.

“CPW officers are working diligently on this investigation and following up on leads, however if the person or persons responsible turn themselves in, CPW may consider more lenient charges,” said Area Wildlife Manager Travis Black.

The public is reminded that poaching is a serious crime and takes away wildlife opportunities from responsible hunters and the citizens of the state of Colorado.

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