Yosemite, CA — Three Southern California residents have been arrested for allegedly poaching multiple trophy sized deer over the past several years within Yosemite National Park.
Taken into custody following an extensive investigation were Chad Gierlich, Chris Gierlich and Kyle Narasky.
Yosemite Chief Ranger Steve Shackelton states, “This is the most egregious case of illegal hunting we have uncovered here in Yosemite National Park. Wildlife in Yosemite is as important as Half Dome or Yosemite Falls. We take this activity very seriously and will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute anybody partaking in this activity.”
The interagency investigation was conducted by Yosemite Rangers, Pacific West Region Special Agents and Department of Fish and Game Wardens. In addition to poaching within the park, state charges have been filed alleging that illegal hunting activity occurred on land under the jurisdiction of the California Department of Fish and Game.
Yosemite Spokesperson Kari Cobb says, “These individuals have actually been given awards and are known for the size of the deer that they have killed, and they are trophy hunters that have been featured in magazines and online.”
The defendants are scheduled to appear in federal court in the next few weeks.
Written by bjhansen@mlode.com.
This post was last modified on 08/25/2009 3:41 pm