New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) police officers recently set up "saturation patrols" to target illegal deer shooting using artificial light, a practice commonly known as deer jacking. "The vast majority of hunters pursue and take game legally," said DEC Law Enforcement Major Tim Duffy. "We work closely with the sporting community to stop individuals from illegally taking game to the detriment of wildlife populations and the legal efforts of honest hunters." In Columbia County, they charged the following folks:
• On November 10, Todd Hall, 44, of Austerlitz and David Hall, 43, of Chatham were charged with possession of an unsecured firearm in a motor vehicle while spotlighting, a misdemeanor. Both were issued an appearance tickets returnable to Austerlitz Justice Court and face up to $1,000 in fines and up to 90 days in jail.
• On November 24, Dominick Popp, 74, of Gallatin was issued appearance tickets for the illegal taking of deer and shooting over a bait pile. Popp appeared in Gallatin Town Court, apologized for his actions and paid a $750 fine.
In Albany County, DEC recorded 14 incidents of deer jacking, 11 in Rensselaer County, and one in Schenectady County. If you have information regarding illegal hunting activities, please contact the DEC Turn in Poachers & Polluters (TIPP) line at 1-800-847-TIPP (7332).