PINEDALE - Michael J. Meeks of Pinedale and Cody R. Post of Riverton were recently convicted of illegally killing a buck mule deer near Daniel on Oct. 31, 2006. The Halloween night escapade resulted in the two individuals killing the large buck during a closed season, at night, with artificial light and rifle calibers not authorized for big game.

Only the head with antlers were taken and the meat was left to waste. The two used .17 caliber rifles to kill the trophy class deer.

Both Meeks and Post were charged with taking an antlered deer during a closed season, taking a deer with artificial light and wanton waste and abandonment of game meat. They were each sentenced to $8,540 in fines and restitution, totaling $17,080. Both lost their hunting, fishing and trapping privileges for five years. In addition, two .17 caliber scoped rifles, ammunition, a knife and a flashlight were ordered forfeited to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department by the Sublette County Circuit Court.

Big Piney Game Warden Brad Hovinga, applauded the efforts of judges John Crow and Kurt Haws, who were both involved in the case. "I think they sent a clear message that the poaching of mule deer will not be tolerated in Sublette County," Hovinga said.

The game warden also recognized the efforts of Sublette County Attorney Ralph Boynton and his office for their relentless effort in prosecuting the case. "This was definitely a team effort on the part of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department game wardens and the Sublette County Attorney’s Office," said Hovinga.

"Obviously, we end our hunting seasons when we do to protect these animals during the winter months when they are more vulnerable," said Hovinga. "After years of trying to bring our mule deer numbers back up, any loss is disturbing, but especially when it’s a blatant illegal shooting like this."

Thousands of mule deer, from the Sublette and Wyoming Range deer herds, spend their winters in the Pinedale-Big Piney-LaBarge area. It’s no secret that these animals are vulnerable this time of year, not just to poachers, but vehicle collisions and harassment by winter recreationists, including antler hunters, photographers and wildlife viewers.

In recent years, Game and Fish enforcement personnel have focused more attention on these mule deer winter ranges, but they still need help. "Obviously, we do not have the personnel to be everywhere, all the time, so we rely on reports from people who are out there," says Hovinga.

"There are actually quite a few people out there watching the deer and their reports of suspicious activity can really help us. Whether you’re a hunter or just a wildlife enthusiast, people should be outraged about the illegal shooting of these animals," said Hovinga.

To report any wildlife violation call the STOP POACHING hotline at (877) WGFD-TIP or (877) 943-3847) or your local game warden. Individuals providing information leading to a conviction may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $5,000.