A disturbing deer poaching ring spanning three Wisconsin counties has shocked residents and conservationists. The operation, which authorities believe has been ongoing for over a year, involved the illegal killing of more than 100 deer across 200 square miles in Fond du Lac, Dodge, and Washington counties.

The investigation, led by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) and the Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office, began with a mid-July tip and has revealed gruesome details about the suspects’ actions and disregard for wildlife.

Nighttime Killings and Trophy Hunting

Sheriff Ryan Waldschmidt described the crimes as “senseless, reckless, and indiscriminate,” words that reflect the brutality of the poaching. The suspects, identified as a 36-year-old woman and three teenage boys from Campbellsport, allegedly hunted deer at night, using high-powered spotlights and rifles. According to reports from Field & Stream, the group often targeted trophy bucks, taking only their heads as souvenirs and leaving the carcasses to rot.

In one incident, authorities found several buck heads discarded in a residential trash can, with their velvet-covered antlers left to decompose. This pattern of abandoning carcasses, along with the use of spotlights, points to a blatant violation of Wisconsin’s hunting laws.

Investigators believe the group was motivated by a desire for trophies, as they left does and smaller deer intact, reported We Are Green Bay.

Community Assistance and a Call for Information

The investigation has relied heavily on community reports of suspicious activity, such as hearing gunshots at night or seeing vehicles using lights to illuminate deer. Residents have also reported finding dead deer with bullet wounds outside of hunting season.

According to WQOW, Sheriff Waldschmidt emphasized the importance of public involvement, saying that tips from local hunters and farmers have been invaluable to the case.

Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward, hoping to build a stronger case against the suspects. They encourage residents to report sightings of vehicles shining lights on deer or finding dead deer with missing heads.

Conservation Warden Zachery Feest told WSAU that the public’s help is crucial in stopping such illegal practices and protecting Wisconsin’s wildlife.

Unlawful Tactics and Potential Charges

The suspects employed several illegal methods, including spotlighting, hunting out of season, and shooting from vehicles. These practices are not only unlawful but also dangerous to both the animals and the community. Authorities have revealed that the suspects face multiple charges, including intentional mistreatment of animals, hunting with artificial light, and discharging firearms from a vehicle, WISN reports.

In one particularly disturbing instance, the suspects allegedly captured a wounded deer and transported it in their vehicle. They later recorded videos of the suffering animal inside their home, only for it to die hours later.

Such incidents have raised concerns among conservationists and local hunters, who view these actions as not only unethical but also deeply cruel. Sheriff Waldschmidt condemned the acts, and was reported by Hoodline as stating that they have no place in a state with a proud hunting tradition.

As the case continues, authorities are working to ensure that the suspects are held accountable. As Field & Stream reports, many in the local hunting community have spoken out, condemning the acts and reaffirming their commitment to responsible hunting practices.

Moving Forward

With hunting season underway, authorities are reminding the public to remain vigilant. Anyone witnessing illegal hunting practices or suspicious behavior is urged to report it to the WDNR or local law enforcement. By standing together, Wisconsin residents can help protect the state’s wildlife and preserve the integrity of its hunting heritage.

Click below to take action for Wisconsin’s wildlife!