Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes made an announcement on Thursday, revealing that a grand jury has issued an indictment against 14 individuals for committing various crimes linked to wildlife poaching in the state.
The attorney general’s office made an announcement on Thursday, revealing a 30-count indictment against the poachers. The indictment accuses them of conspiracy, illegal enterprise, theft, and animal cruelty in relation to the wildlife protected by state law. The list of illegally poached animals includes bighorn sheep, elk, pronghorn antelope, deer, javelina, and turkey. These poaching incidents occurred between 2018 and 2021.
“Wildlife poaching in Arizona is a grave issue that not only steals our precious natural resources but also hampers our ability to manage wildlife and their habitats effectively. It has a detrimental impact on our ability to enjoy the outdoors and significantly reduces opportunities for hunting and fishing,” stated the AG’s office in a news release.
The group allegedly committed crimes in Maricopa, Yavapai, and Coconino counties, resulting in the state losing over $200,000, according to prosecutors.
The defendants in this case are identified as:
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- Bu Reh
- Joseph Hee
- Neh Reh
- Nga Reh
- Pray Reh
- Ree Reh
- Simon C. Zam
- Tee Reh
- Ti Reh
- Young Bal Cangmah
The reason behind redacting four of the defendants’ names remains unclear.
In count 30, Ree Ree and Tee Reh are facing an accusation of cruelty to animals for allegedly killing a deer by smashing its head with a rock.
State officials are reminding the public about Operation Game Thief, a hotline that serves as a platform to report any suspicious activity or information regarding poaching violations. The hotline, which operates 24/7, can be accessed by dialing 1-800-352-0700 or by visiting the official website of the Arizona Game and Fish.
Less than a month after Game and Fish authorities requested information on the poaching incident of a mule deer buck near O’Neill Crater, an indictment has been issued. According to officials, the buck was shot and abandoned, causing it to endure hours of suffering before wildlife officials could intervene.