A South Carolina man has been found guilty of various wildlife violations, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
Christopher M. Waters, 44, of Loris, admitted to 12 counts of illegal deer and wild turkey hunting in Knox County after an ODNR Division of Wildlife investigation revealed that his violations occurred between December 2022 and November 2023 during his visits to Ohio. According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, he entered a plea in November 2024. He got a judgment that included $4,110.67 in restitution, $300 in fines, loss of hunting gear, and a three-year hunting license revocation.
Violation accusations against Waters included hunting without authorized licenses and permits, illegal deer and turkey possession, rule violations such as spotlighting and using motor vehicles for hunting, hunting outside of legal hours, and using incorrect firearms. Two additional offenders in the case acknowledged multiple offenses and will face their own punishments and license bans.
In addition to Waters’ case, Cody Muncie, 35, from Howard, was convicted of five violations, including failure to check in harvested deer and false reporting during the game checking process, for which he must pay $5,741.25 and fines amounting to $200, and Douglas Hartman, 40, of Mount Vernon, found guilty on similar counts but to a lesser degree, faces $1,000 in restitution and identical acceptable value, both men having relinquished their hunting privileges for two years.
The Division of Wildlife, which works with the public, emphasizes the need for community involvement in protecting Ohio’s wildlife. It encourages anyone who notices violations to contact the Turn in a Poacher hotline. The agency’s state officers promote public safety and conservation education. The ODNR explains its dedication to the difficult balance of using and safeguarding natural resources. Its website provides more information on these activities.