In Amerikaanse staat Missouri 2000 arrestaties wegens illegale jacht op herten - Jagers gebruiken meer en meer schijnwerpers om dieren af te schieten

Missouri logs 2,000 arrests for illegal deer poaching

10-12-2009 The Associated Press, KansasCity.com, USA


State conservation agents have made 2,000 arrests statewide for illegal deer poaching this season, KDSK-TV in St. Louis reports.

The Missouri Department of Conservation says 2,000 arrests are typical. But St. Louis-area agent Chris Morrow says there's been an increase in the number of cases of spotlighting — when poachers shoot deer after shining bright lights at them.

Poachers also are engaging in the illegal activity of shooting deer from the road.

He said agents have found deer left dead with their heads or antlers removed. In Missouri, cash rewards are offered to anyone who provides information leading to a poaching arrest. Callers to the “Operation Game Thief” tip line can remain anonymous. The number is 1-800-392-1111.

Poachers face up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Repeat offenders face suspension of hunting and fishing privileges.

(Bron: http://www.kansascity.com/)