A group of 18- to 21-year-olds from Leitchfield and Elizabethtown is accused of illegally killing hundreds of animals.
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Six people are facing more than 100 combined criminal charges following a year-long investigation into what officials describe as a major poaching ring.
On Thursday, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources said the group illegally killed several hundred animals across Hardin and Grayson counties, including deer, turkey, fox and a domestic pet.
Those charged in the investigation include:
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Allen Sauer (21, Leitchfield): Faces 76 violations, including 52 counts of illegal take of deer and turkey, spotlighting, animal cruelty and unlawful transaction with a minor.
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Aden Walker (21, Elizabethtown): Charged with illegal take of wildlife, spotlighting and discharging a firearm from a roadway.
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Malachi Delatour (18, Leitchfield): Charged with illegal take, animal cruelty and unlawful transaction with a minor.
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Joshua Stevenson (18, Leitchfield): Charged with illegal take and hunting without permission.
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Bradley Webb (18, Leitchfield): Charged with illegal take and taking wildlife from a vehicle.
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Madison Whittington (20, Leitchfield): Charged with illegal take of deer and turkey.
According to a news release, the investigation intensified in July 2024 after game wardens stopped the group for using high-powered lights to illuminate fields from a vehicle — a practice known as spotlighting.
During the stop, wardens found multiple .22-caliber firearms, spotlighting equipment and open alcoholic beverages.
“Although the suspects initially claimed they were raccoon hunting, game wardens noted no open season for the species was in effect at the time,” Kentucky Fish and Wildlife said.
Officials said further investigation uncovered what they described as a coordinated effort to illegally take wildlife in Hardin and Grayson counties.
To report suspected poaching in Kentucky, call 1-800-25-ALERT or text “KFWLAW” to tip411 (847411). People can also contact their local game warden or a nearby Kentucky State Police post.
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