December 24, 2025 in Regional, Top Stories

TWRA INVESTIGATION UNCOVERS MAJOR POACHING VIOLATIONS

Posted by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency:
TWRA game wardens in Wilson and Rutherford counties have concluded an investigation into extensive poaching activity that began with a citizen tip in fall 2024. Officers discovered multiple violations involving the illegal take of white-tailed deer and the unlawful sale and bartering of deer meat.
Search warrants led to the seizure of 50 deer heads and antlers, a wild turkey head, an illegally possessed fox squirrel, and several weapons used in the violations.
One individual pled guilty to multiple offenses, resulting in a lifetime ban from hunting, fishing, trapping, and entering TWRA-managed lands, along with $15,000 in restitution and 60 days of incarceration. Another individual pled guilty to several wildlife violations and received a three-year hunting privilege revocation.
If you witness or have knowledge of hunting violations, please contact the TWRA Poaching Hotline: 1-800-831-1174.
TWRA remains committed to protecting Tennessee’s wildlife and enforcing conservation laws.


CONTACT INFORMATION

3B Media
105.7 The HOG / Spirit 101.9/ 93.3 The Ranch
94.1 The VIBE / 98.9 The WOLF
37 South Drive
Crossville, TN 38555

Phone: 931-484-1057
Fax: 931-707-0580