State officials investigate recent deer poaching

Fish and Wildlife are investigating a "spree-killing" of deer near Grand Coulee.

by Herald Staff Writer & Joe Utter
| February 18, 2013 5:05 AM

GRAND COULEE - The state Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking help finding the person responsible for a string of deer poaching in the Grand Coulee area.

According to fish and wildlife police, five dead white tail deer, including two buck and three does, were discovered in the area Saturday. The deer had only the backstrap and hindquarters removed, according to reports.

Police said the deer were shot and left to rot just a few feet from each other. The killings appeared to be fairly fresh. WDFW do not have any suspects at this time.

WDFW are offering a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual(s) responsible for the spree-killing.

Police are also investigating the illegal killing of four mule deer in Douglas and Okanogan counties. Police said many of the deer were left with only the heads removed and the body left behind to go to waste. WDFW is also offering up to a $2,500 reward for this case.

The killing of multiple animals as part of a pattern of conduct is classified as a "spree killing" and is considered a felony, according to police. An individual charged with killing the animals could face an additional $6,000 per deer fine beyond fines set by and court and could have vehicles and weapons seized.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the poaching hotline at 877-933-9847 or email a tip to reportpoaching@dfw.wa.gov.