Three poachers in California were caught in the act at a national park, where they had headless deer concealed in trash bags.
On Friday, officers apprehended the suspects after receiving tips that they were hunting deer illegally at Angeles National Park, located in Los Angeles County.
According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), “After receiving a tip from an observant citizen, officers performed focused night patrols in the area. During one of these patrols, they noticed two vehicles driving off-road while using a spotlight to scan the forest—an illegal and extremely hazardous way of hunting.”
Law enforcement stopped both vehicles and took three individuals into custody. Upon initial contact, officers noticed blood on their clothing and hands, which led to a more thorough investigation.
The authorities discovered firearms and two female deer. One was entirely skinned, while the other had been cut into four parts.
Both deer were found headless and packed inside black trash bags. The suspects allegedly confessed to unlawfully killing the deer and attempting to conceal their actions.
All three were arrested but later released on the condition that they would appear in court.
This incident occurred just as nearly twenty deer hunting zones across California opened for rifle hunting on September 19.
“In 2025, deer tag sales brought in almost $7 million, which plays a significant role in funding big game conservation, habitat protection and restoration, as well as scientific research,” CDFW mentioned last week.
In another related incident, the CDFW had also arrested lobster poachers at Santa Monica Pier about two months ago, confiscating a total of 34 lobsters, including some that were carrying eggs, which were ultimately returned to the ocean.
Anyone who suspects illegal wildlife activity can report it by calling CAPTIP at 888-334-228.
