Utah Laws Provide Harsh Punishments for Poachers

September 23, 2009

If you're a hunter, it is important that you are extraordinarily careful when hunting in Utah. What you think is legal may actually be illegal, and the penalties are stiff.

September 23, 2009 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Utah Laws Provide Harsh Punishments for Poachers

Article provided by Greg Smith and Steven Russell, Criminal Law Attorneys
Visit us at http://www.bestutahlawyer.com

Poaching, defined as the illegal hunting, fishing, or consuming of wild animals or plants, is a significant problem in Utah, according to Utah authorities. As the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources has noted, poaching is theft. The Division asserts that in violating the rules established for the protection of Utah's environment and natural habitats, poachers jeopardize the long-term integrity of these precious resources. And for that reason, they can really bring the hammer down on those whom they feel have violated the law.

Activities involving wildlife in Utah are highly regulated, making the potential violations numerous. Among other things, hunters may be penalized for killing animals out of season, killing more animals than permitted, hunting during restricted hours or on restricted land, or hunting endangered species. This can happened innocently, too.

Plant poaching is also becoming more prevalent, as the potential profits can be significant. An example is the removal of wild ginseng plants, used for medicinal purposes, estimated to be worth over $500 per pound on the black market. Poachers may be motivated by sport or commercial profit, and this, too, can get a person into a lot of trouble with the law.

Wildlife officials estimate that for every animal taken legally during legitimate hunting seasons, another is taken illegally by poachers, amounting to tens of millions of animals per year. If you're a hunter, it is important that you are extraordinarily careful when hunting. What you think is legal may actually be illegal, and the penalties are stiff. Killing an elk can cost you $8,000, and may land you in prison for up to five years.

Unexpected alliances have formed between hunters and animal advocates. Supporters from both groups help to protect reward programs and tip lines designed to stop poachers. Those seeking to stop poachers are also making efforts to increase public awareness, to support effective legislation, and to encourage people to identify and turn in offenders.

Despite the efforts of private citizens though, wildlife agencies responsible for enforcing state and federal laws have the difficult task of dealing with scarce resources and an enormous amount of open land. As a result, only a small percentage of poachers are actually caught and punished for their crimes. But don't assume you won't get caught.

If you have been accused of poaching, it is important to make sure your rights are protected. Utah law enforcement officers take these violations very seriously, and you should as well. Speak to an attorney who can help you understand the potential consequences and your options.

Article provided by Greg Smith and Steven Russell, Criminal Law Attorneys
Visit us at http://www.bestutahlawyer.com

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