Page 8 - Outdoor Oklahoma Magazine Mar-Apr2023

GAME WARDEN’S JOURNAL

ACCOUNTS FROM THE FIELD BY THE PUBLIC SERVANTS WHO ENFORCE THE FISH
AND WILDLIFE LAWS OF OKLAHOMA

Game Warden Larry All deer were shot
Green, based in Osage from public roadways in
County, caught up with and around Mosier Sta-
some notorious wildlife tion and Highline Road in
violators in his county. Major County.
Assisted by Game Warden While this case result-
Spencer Grace, based in ed from traditional law
Kay County, the two Game enforcement observa-
Wardens apprehended tion and investigation,
Larry Green Phillip Cottrill
two convicted felons in many other cases result
possession of a firearm, from reports from con-
no driver license, hunting cerned citizens. Anyone
without landowner con- who may know of possi-
sent, untagged and unin- ble illegal activity to con-
sured truck, and illegal tact any Game Warden.
possession of a deer head, Poachers steal wildlife
found in the feed box of from all the citizens of
the truck. Oklahoma!
Both violators were Spencer Grace Ben Bickerstaff
transported to Osage
County Jail, and the vehicle was impounded. Numerous
charges were filed.

Game Wardens Phillip Cottrill, based in Major Coun-
ty, and Lt. Ben Bickerstaff, based in Alfalfa County,
recently teamed to put a stop to the activities of two
Major County deer poachers. (Reports from the Oklahoma Game Wardens Face-
The Game Wardens filed eight charges on two men for book page.)
taking 11 illegal deer. The charges amounted to $11,400
in fines, court costs, and restitution. EDITOR’S NOTE: Please help make a difference!
It’s important to note that not every violation that When violators break the law, they steal fish and
occurred resulted in a citation during this investigation; wildlife from you! Report violations anonymously by
if all violations had been written, the fines, court costs calling Operation Game Thief at (800) 522-8039. You
and restitution could have totaled more than $55,000. could earn a cash reward.

6 OFF THE BEATEN PATH