In September 2023, CDFW wildlife officers in Madera County were conducting a routine inspection at a local taxidermy shop when a distinctive antlered deer mount immediately caught their eye. They recognized the antlers from a buck previously photographed alive in Yosemite Lakes Park, a residential golf course community in Coarsegold.
Attached to the mount was an A19 Archery/X10 tag claiming the deer had been taken in Inyo County near Mount Whitney — more than 100 air miles away.
Officers compared dates and photos and confirmed the same deer was alive in Yosemite Lakes Park just days before the reported harvest. A search warrant served at the tag holder’s residence uncovered photos showing the deer behind his home on the same day it was claimed to have been taken in the X10 deer zone.
Following CDFW’s law enforcement investigation, the Madera County District Attorney’s Office filed multiple charges against the tag holder. In September 2025, the individual pleaded guilty to violating California Fish and Game Code sections 1054(a) involving the falsification of documents submitted to CDFW and 2000(a) involving the unlawful taking of a mammal.
This individual was sentenced to a three-year hunting ban, one year of probation, forfeiture of the deer, mandatory re-completion of hunter education, court fees, and 80 hours of community service.
Poaching undermines wildlife conservation and fair chase hunting. Holding violators accountable protects California’s wildlife for everyone. Report poaching or wildlife crimes to CalTIP at 1-888-334-2258 or through TIP411 app.
