Panhandle Deer Poaching Ring Busted

A seven-member ring accused of illegally killing and selling deer on the Florida Panhandle was recently busted, according to a release from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

Following a two-month investigation, FWC law enforcement officers filed arrest warrants with the State Attorney’s Office for seven individuals from Washington and Holmes counties for killing deer during the closed season and at night and selling the meat.

Lt. Warren Walsingham, who supervises FWC officers in Washington and Holmes counties, said the group, which includes four adults and three juveniles, was illegally shooting deer at night in fields and along roads north of Westville and near State Road 81. He said members of the group killed at least seven deer. Once killed, the deer were cleaned, processed and sold to a Westville man.

He said officers seized more than 150 pounds of processed venison during the investigation and three firearms. The meat has since been turned over to a charitable organization.

“This commercialization of wildlife is something your really don’t see anymore,” Walsingham said. “People who do this can suppress or wipe out deer in an area. The tough part is the deer were killed where hunters, landowners and others were doing everything they can to protect the deer and see their herds thrive.”

Walsingham said the investigation began after the FWC received a Wildlife Alert tip. The person who offered the tip may receive a reward. Rewards can be as much as $1,000.

The following were charged with taking deer during closed season and additional violations: Matthew Nobles (DOB 02/20/96) of Westville, Nicholas Nixon (DOB 11/21/95) of Caryville, Justin Cassidy (DOB 12/13/93) of Westville and Lemmie Davis (DOB 05/02/55) of Westville. The three juveniles face one misdemeanor count each for taking deer during the closed season.

Walsingham urged anyone with knowledge of fish and wildlife violations to contact the Wildlife Alert tip line at 888-404-FWCC (3922). Complainants can remain anonymous.

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