Utah Wildlife Officials Seek Public Assistance In Solving Illegal Buck Deer Killings

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is seeking public assistance in solving two cases of illegally killed buck deer in Iron County last month. According to a press release, conservation officers received a report on Nov. 26 regarding a deer shot and left to waste in Parowan. The animal, a 22-inch, 3x3 buck deer, was killed with a rifle sometime between the evening of Nov. 24 and the morning of Nov. 25.

A second case was reported on Dec. 1. Officers responding to the call discovered another 3x3 buck deer, measuring 23 inches, shot and left to waste south of Summit. Investigators believe this deer was killed with a rifle between the evening of Nov. 29 and the morning of Nov. 30. Summit is a small, unincorporated community in east-central Iron County.

No legal deer hunts were taking place in either area when the animals were killed. The DWR noted that individuals responsible for these acts could face third-degree felony charges for wanton destruction of protected wildlife and waste of protected wildlife.

DWR

The DWR encourages anyone with information about these incidents to come forward. Reports can be made by calling the UTiP Hotline at 800-662-3337, using the UTDWR Law Enforcement app, or texting 847411. For information about the first case, Sgt. Kody Jones can be reached at 435-691-3232. Those with details about the second case may contact Sgt. Josh Carver at 435-691-4167.

The DWR emphasized that a reward may be offered for information leading to successful prosecution, and requests for confidentiality will be honored.