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Published on October 12, 2024
Four Arrested from Campbellsport in Alleged Wisconsin Wildlife Poaching and Torture RingSource: Unsplash/ Acton Crawford

A 36-year-old woman along with three 16-year-old boys, all from Campbellsport, have been arrested in connection to an extensive animal poaching and torture ring operating across three Wisconsin counties, officials say. These arrests follow a collaborative investigation by local sheriff's deputies and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) that spanned several months, according to the Fond du Lac Reporter. Authorities claim the group is responsible for the shooting and killing of over a hundred deer and engaging in cruelty toward various other wildlife.

Investigators have detailed the suspects' modus operandi, which involved nighttime excursions where they used a spotlight to locate and shoot deer from their vehicle. Often, they did not even collect the carcasses, leaving them to rot or be recovered solely for their antlers. The suspects have been accused of intentionally striking animals with their vehicle, mistreating captured wildlife, and committing acts categorized as "Senseless. Reckless. Indiscriminate," as Fond du Lac County Sheriff Ryan Waldschmidt stated in a statement to WBAY.

Charges and civil DNR violations against the group include a list of serious accusations, including hunting with artificial light, possession of game killed by unlawful means, and obstructing conservation efforts. The group's actions have drawn condemnation from the broader community, with a local deer hunter telling CBS 58, "Clearly these people were not taught any ethics."

The evidence collected includes videos and photos showcasing the cruelty, with one video showing the suspects walking around their home with a clearly suffering deer. The investigation was sparked by an observant citizen who reported suspicious activities, and authorities have taken care to remind the public to report DNR violations, especially with the hunting season underway. Paul Collins, state director of Animal Wellness Action, expressed concern to CBS 58 regarding the effectiveness of the penalties in Wisconsin, fearing that unless district attorneys eagerly enforce these laws, there would be no deterrent.

Following the accusations, numerous charges have been referred to the respective district attorney’s offices and juvenile intake in an attempt to ensure justice is served for the wild creatures who fell victim to these egregious acts. As the case develops, and the public's outcry for justice rises, the incident has hammered home the need to uphold ethical standards in wildlife conservation.