Tag Archives: wildlife crimes

3 Crimes to Avoid When Hunting in Texas

Wildlife crimes,

Thousands of people go hunting each year in Texas. There are many different types of wildlife and game and a vast amount of land to cover, which makes this state an ideal location for hunting.

But hunting isn’t a free-for-all activity. There are many rules and regulations that people must adhere to in order to hunt legally. Here are a few of the wildlife crimes people need to avoid when hunting.

Hunting Without an ID

Hunting is a sport that many families enjoy together. The trips are a great way to encourage generational bonding, so hunting has been a longstanding tradition for many people in Texas. No matter what age you are, hunting can be a great experience. Just don’t forget to bring your ID.

Anyone over 17 must have a driver’s license or state identification certificate on them when they’re hunting. This law extends to non-Texans as well.

Waste of Game

Few hunters would do this, but it’s worth mentioning that killing an animal and simply leaving it behind is illegal. You must make a legitimate effort to retrieve your kill and include it in your bag limit; otherwise, you could face a Class C misdemeanor.

In addition, hunting white-tailed or mule deer, pronghorn, or desert bighorn sheep without retrieving them can be a Class A misdemeanor if you hunted without landowner permission or you hunted at night, from a public road, or from another prohibited location.

Trespassing

Hunters cannot go onto a landowner’s property for any reason without consent. Whether it’s to hunt, pursue an animal you shot that got away or you’re trying to retrieve your dog that wandered onto the land, you need permission from the landowner first.

Hunting Endangered or Threatened Species

If you kill a federally-recognized endangered species, you’ll face a $3,500 fine for a first offense. Even wounding or injuring one of these animals will result in a $2,000 fine. Some of the endangered or threatened species that inhabit or travel through Texas include:

  • Jaguar
  • Ocelot
  • Gray wolf
  • Red wolf
  • Louisiana black bear
  • Golden-cheeked warbler
  • Black-capped vireo
  • Attwater’s prairie chicken
  • Whooping crane
  • Eastern brown pelican
  • Bald eagle
  • Peregrine falcon
  • Northern aplomado falcon
  • Mexican spotted owl

Punishments for Breaking Wildlife Laws

When hunters violate wildlife laws, they can face thousands of dollars in fines depending on the severity of the crime. But that’s not all. Those found guilty of wildlife crimes could also face years in prison and have to forfeit their gear and firearms.

Helping You Fight Criminal Charges of Wildlife Crimes in Texas

Are you facing possible jail time or hunting license revocation due to wildlife crime charges? The experienced attorneys of Lee & Wood, LP will fight on your behalf and help you through this hard time. Call 817-678-6771 or send us a message online to request a free consultation.

Common Wildlife Crimes in Texas

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In Texas, wildlife and the land that our animals call home are highly protected. Many laws and regulations exist for hunting, fishing and other activities. Unfortunately, wildlife crimes are still quite common in our state. Here, we dive into the basics of these crimes, including common violations and consequences.

Common Wildlife Crimes in Texas

Many wildlife crimes are committed throughout our state each year. In some cases, these crimes are committed willingly. In other cases, these crimes are committed by individuals who simply don’t know Texas law.

Some examples of common wildlife crimes include:

  • Hunting or fishing without a license or permit
  • Lying about your information to obtain a license or permit
  • Hunting endangered species
  • Purposeful destruction of wildlife
  • Trespassing on private property to hunt or fish
  • Illegal use of a motor vehicle while hunting or fishing
  • Hunting or possession of out-of-season wildlife
  • Failure to tag game properly
  • Weapons violations

What Are the Consequences of a Wildlife Crime?

Wildlife crimes are taken seriously in Texas. There are various consequences you may be subject to if you are found guilty of a violation. For example, you may be subject to a fine or may need to pay restitution to the state.

Depending on the severity of the wildlife violation, this could cost you thousands of dollars. You may also have your fishing or hunting licenses permanently revoked.

In other severe cases, jail time isn’t off the table. For example, a felony charge may result in a fine of up to $10,000 and two years in jail.

The best way to prevent a violation is to increase your knowledge of Texas law. For example, you can check out the Texas Parks & Wildlife resources for information on the specific regulations involving wildlife.

Accused of a Wildlife Crime? Consider an Attorney.

If you’ve been accused of a wildlife crime by a game warden, conservation officer, or someone from the Department of Natural Resources, you’ll need the help of a skilled attorney. An attorney can help protect your rights in court and, in some cases, may be able to minimize the consequences.

Reach Out to Lee & Wood, LP Today

Have you been accused of a wildlife crime in Texas? We can help you. Our skilled criminal defense attorneys have years of experience working with clients just like you. To discuss your case with a qualified attorney, give us a call at 817-678-6771 or send us a message.