A registered hunting guide has been convicted of Attempted Destruction of Livestock after a poaching investigation led officers to video evidence of the suspect shooting a bow at a herd of cattle. The Utah DNR Division of Law Enforcement announced Sunday that the individual, who was already serving a license suspension for a previous wildlife crime, now faces significant legal fees and a long-term suspension of both his hunting and guiding licenses.
Evidence found during investigation
The discovery of the livestock shooting occurred during the execution of a search warrant on the suspect's cellphone. According to the Utah DNR Division of Law Enforcement, officers were originally conducting a poaching investigation when they uncovered the video depicting the criminal activity involving the cattle.
Agency cooperation and accountability
Natural Resource Officers noted that the recovered footage provided direct evidence of the suspect's actions against the herd. The agency emphasized its ongoing commitment to protecting Utah's natural resources and stated that the investigation involved collaboration with other agencies, specifically citing support from the Department of Agriculture.
Consequences for hunting guide
In addition to the criminal conviction, the suspect's professional credentials have been heavily impacted. The Utah DNR Division of Law Enforcement confirmed that the individual faces a long-term suspension of both his hunting and guiding licenses. This follows a previous period where he was already under a license suspension due to a prior wildlife crime.
Reporting wildlife crimes
The Utah DNR Division of Law Enforcement is encouraging anyone with information regarding wildlife or other natural resource crimes to report them through official channels. The agency maintains the UTiP Hotline at 800-662-3337 and provides a reporting option via the UTDWR Law Enforcement app by texting 847411.
