Clinton County has witnessed the final chapter of a notorious deer poaching saga as Christopher J. ("CJ") Alexander, 28, was sentenced to jail for his central role in illegal hunting activities, as announced by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost. Alexander, hailing from Wilmington, now faces 90 days in incarceration and a burden of $43,000 in penalties, restitution, and court costs for taking down an 18-point white-tailed deer last year—a prized specimen valued as a cherished natural resource of the state.
"Hunting in Ohio is a time-honored tradition, and there is a proper way to be safe and successful," declared Yost. When bad actors like these guys try to cheat the system, it ruins the reputation of Ohio’s respected sportsmen and women – I can't stand for that, said Yost, reflecting the state's disdain for those contravening its hunting laws. Through the swift justice accorded by the courts, the aim is not just to punish but also to convey a stern message against wildlife crimes.
As per the details shared by the Ohio Attorney General's Office, Alexander's plea on Oct. 15 led to his sentencing on 14 charges, including a felony count of theft by deception and tampering with evidence. His misdemeanors encompass hunting violations, falsification, jack lighting, and selling wildlife parts. The sentence mandates that Alexander pay sizable restitution to the Ohio Wildlife Fund and KSE Sportsman Media, forfeit all hunting-related property seized, and lose his hunting license for at least a decade, with restitution payment determining its reinstatement.
In a related turn of events, Corey Haunert, 29, another participant in these illicit activities, faced his reckoning before Alexander, receiving 90 days in jail (suspended under the condition of completing 200 hours of community service) and other penalties. His brother, Zachary, and CJ's sister, Kristina M. Alexander, were also implicated, each receiving monitored supervision and financial penalties. These sentences spotlight an extensive investigation by ODNR's Division of Wildlife, leading to the harsh consequences doled out to deter future offenders.
The prosecutions reinforce Ohio's unwavering stance on protecting its natural heritage, as the state hands out justice to preserve its wildlife and uphold the integrity of a tradition that threads through the very fabric of Ohioan culture.
