Illegal Deer Hunting Uncovered in Angeles National Forest
Officers from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) recently intercepted illegal hunting activities in Angeles National Forest. During one night patrol, CDFW officers identified two vehicles off-road, using spotlights in a prohibited hunting method.
Upon stopping the vehicles, officers discovered three individuals with evidence of illegal hunting. The suspects had blood on their hands and clothing, alongside freshly killed deer. Two doe deer, found headless and stuffed in trash bags, were seized along with loaded firearms and spotlights.
The suspects were arrested but later released with a promise to appear in court, as stated by the agency. They admitted to unlawfully killing the deer and attempting to hide their activities.
CDFW officers seized all evidence, including the deer and firearms. Violations highlighted include hunting without licenses, possession of untagged deer, and using illegal hunting methods involving loaded firearms and spotlights.
The timing of the arrests remains unclear, and the agency has yet to respond to further inquiries.
In a public post, CDFW revealed they had received numerous reports last August regarding illegal deer hunting in forested areas mainly within Los Angeles County. These reports led to targeted night patrols, resulting in the recent arrests.
Alan Barcelona, president of the California Statewide Law Enforcement Association, emphasized the importance of public tips. He noted the risks to officers who investigate illegal nighttime hunting, as they encounter armed individuals in challenging terrain.
He reflected that public tips are invaluable since CDFW officers cannot patrol everywhere simultaneously.
Previously, in 2020, public information led to the prosecution of a man in Yuba County, accused of killing seven doe deer. DNA evidence confirmed his illegal hunting activities.
In California, a hunting license and deer tag are mandatory for deer hunting. Currently, nearly two dozen zones have opened for rifle hunting, including regions in Central Valley and Eastern Sierra.