In a concerted crackdown on poaching, the Oregon State Police recently wrapped up an investigation centered around the illegal use of thermal imaging for hunting in Clackamas County. Thermal devices, which offer hunters an undue advantage by making it easier to spot wildlife, are strictly outlawed for these activities. Despite the ban, the OSP's Fish and Wildlife Division has noted a worrying uptick in complaints over the past two years concerning such unethical practices, particularly with the Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) technology.
Spearheaded by an increase in nefarious uses of FLIR devices, a series of search warrants were issued by Fish and Wildlife Troopers. With Oregon's wildlife at stake, the troopers launched their investigation in the fall of 2024, focusing on a group of individuals allegedly exploiting infrared technology to take down deer and elk illegally. During December 15 and 16, law enforcement descended upon nine Clackamas County residences, and their efforts bore fruit—uncovering 14 thermal imaging devices and seizing four deer corpses along with a rifle.
The seized devices and animal remains point to a deeper issue of technology's role in disrupting the natural order, prompting the OSP to proceed with criminal charges. "This case highlights the Fish and Wildlife Division’s ability to adapt to modern poaching threats and effectively investigate and seek criminal prosecution of poachers," Captain Kyle Kennedy explained in a statement obtained by FlashAlert. As a result of their thorough probe, criminal wildlife charges will be forwarded to the Clackamas County District Attorney's Office for 13 individuals implicated in this illicit ring.
While out in the field, interrupting their illicit activities, three individuals received criminal citations and subsequent release. The OSP emphasizes its commitment to conserving Oregon’s rich wildlife heritage, diligently following up on leads, and ensuring that wildlife poaching, especially via sophisticated infrared tech, does not go unchallenged. As the cases are still under investigation, no additional details have been made available to the public. Those with any information regarding wildlife law violations or suspicious activities are encouraged to step forward and can do so anonymously. There may even be cash or preference point rewards for tips leading to citations or arrests in qualifying cases.
The OSP remains resolute in its mission to protect Oregon's wildlife and uphold the rule of law, extending beyond simple traffic enforcement and crime solving to safeguard the state's environmental backbone. The organization comprises over 1,400 dedicated staff members whose roles span a multitude of essential public safety and regulatory services. Committed to the task at hand, they have exemplified once again how the vigilant protection of Oregon's natural resources is not just a duty but a necessity.
