An Ohio man has been sentenced to a heavy penalty after a high-profile case of deer poaching.
Christopher J. Alexander, 28, of Wilmington, Clinton County, was sentenced to six months in prison and fined $4 for illegally taking 18 white-tailed deer that were considered valuable in November 2023. He was ordered to pay $3,000. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost said it is a natural resource for the state.
According to state officials, this was the largest amount awarded for a single deer in Ohio history. Department of Natural Resources.
“Hunting in Ohio is a time-honored tradition, and there are proper methods to ensure it is safe and successful,” Yost said. “When bad actors like them try to game the system, it tarnishes the reputation of Ohio's esteemed athletes and athletes, and I won't tolerate that.”
The ringleader, Alexander, pleaded guilty in October to 14 charges, including hunting violations, forgery, backlighting and selling wild animal parts, all misdemeanors, authorities said.
In addition to the fine and prison term, Alexander was sentenced to five years of community control and his hunting license revoked for 10 years.
He also confiscated all property seized as evidence, including trophy deer antlers.
Investigators say Alexander was aided and abetted in the crime by his sister, Christina M. Alexander, and Cory and Zachary Haunert.
All three entered into plea deals on October 15th and were subsequently sentenced to penalties including fines, community service, and license revocation.
