Trophy Mule Deer Poachers Charged

In a case that has generated a great deal of public interest, two Canyon County juveniles have now been charged with poaching a trophy mule deer. The poachers used a spotlight and a .22 rifle to kill the big buck as it grazed in a field south of Nampa. Fish and Game conservation officer Dave Saindon filed a total of six charges against the two youths, whose names are not being released due to their ages. The "shooter" was charged with taking a trophy big game animal with the aid of artificial light, trespassing, taking a big game animal with an unlawful weapon, and resisting and obstructing a peace officer. The second was also charged with taking a big game animal with the aid of artificial light and trespassing. Both now face serious fines, license suspensions and possible jail time. Because the buck scored more than 150 points, it is classified as a "trophy" by Idaho state law, a classification that doubles pertinent civil penalties. In this particular case, the civil penalty would increase to $2,000. If found guilty, the two youths also face a minimum one year license revocation. At the judge's discretion, that revocation could be further extended, including revocation for life. The case is pending in Canyon County court. Additional information will be released at the conclusion of the case.