Overman Assumes New Duties As IDFG Investigator

Sr. Conservation Officer Dave Overman has been selected to assume the new position of Regional Investigator for the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG). Overman, who applied for and recently received appointment to the position, was formerly the Conservation Officer in the St. Maries patrol district. His appointment was effective July 17, 2005. He will eventually be moving to Kootenai County and will be stationed at the IDFG Panhandle Region office in Coeur d'Alene. According to Regional Conservation Officer Steve Agte, "There is an increasing need for in-depth investigation of cases involving habitual wildlife offenders. Many of these cases involve the commercialization of Idaho's fish and wildlife resources." The investigative needs stem, in part, from the increased commercialization of antlers and horns and the increased internet marketing of wildlife parts. Some instances of sale of wildlife parts to obtain money to purchase narcotics have been detected. Additionally, the increased mobility of wildlife criminals and wildlife parts crossing state boundaries is a matter of concern to all state wildlife agencies. Overman was selected for the position for his demonstrated ability to perform long term and complex criminal investigations. He will provide the region with expertise in case preparation, documentation, report writing, trial preparation, warrant service, and affidavit writing. The Regional Investigator position was created using an existing vacant position, and it does not represent an expansion in IDFG personnel.