Man Wanted for 20 Years on Wyoming Poaching Charges Finally Arrested
A man who evaded Wyoming authorities for more than two decades has been arrested and sentenced for wildlife-related crimes committed in 1998, Laramie Live reports.
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) emphasized that poaching offenses are taken seriously in the state, and there is no statute of limitations on wildlife crimes.
Kenny Craig, formerly of Lysite, Wyoming, was in his early twenties when he illegally killed a 5×5 mule deer buck in a limited quota area without the required license. He then attempted to cover up the violation by tagging the deer with his brother’s permit. Additionally, he falsely claimed Wyoming residency, despite not meeting the one-year requirement, and had never completed the mandatory hunter education course.
The case was initially investigated in 1999 by WGFD game wardens, who issued citations requiring Craig to appear in court. However, before his court date, he fled to Alabama, leading to a warrant being issued for his arrest in early 2000.
Craig managed to avoid returning to Wyoming for over 20 years but was eventually arrested last year. He was charged with the original wildlife violations and, as part of a plea agreement, was fined over $1,400 and had his hunting, fishing, and trapping privileges revoked for three years.
WGFD Lander Region Wildlife Supervisor Jason Hunter highlighted the importance of the case, stating:
“Cases like these send a clear message: wildlife crimes will not be ignored, no matter how much time has passed.”
The WGFD encourages anyone with information about poaching or other wildlife crimes to report it through the Stop Poaching Hotline at 877-WGFD-TIP or submit an anonymous tip online at wgfd.wyo.gov/enforcement. Reports may qualify for a reward through the Wyoming Wildlife Protector’s Association.
