Four charged in Whitefish deer poaching cases

Four people have been charged in a series of poaching incidents last year where 19 deer were allegedly shot and left to waste near Whitefish.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks wardens say the four people have pleaded not guilty to charges issued Sept. 27 of waste of game, using artificial light to hunt big game, unlawful possession of big game animals, and hunting  during a closed season.

The violations mainly occurred in the Farm to Market Road, Dillon Road and Voerman Road areas, FWP says.

FWP is also seeking information about a 5x6 whitetail buck that was illegally shot the evening of Nov. 5 off Dillon Road east of Whitefish.

The shooter left the scene before officers could arrive and left the deer in the field. The suspect was driving a vehicle described as a dark colored pickup truck with large tires, brush guard and top bar.   

Game Wardens urge anyone with any information to call 1-800-TIPMONT. A person that gives information that leads to a conviction may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.