NEWPORT — Vermont state game wardens say they recently charged two Orleans County men for allegedly poaching several deer during March and April.
On June 22, game wardens executed a search warrant at the residence of Shawn Bell, 37, of Greensboro, and based on evidence gathered during the investigation charged him with taking deer in closed season during the spring of this year. Arraignment for Bell will be on July 20 in Caledonia Superior Court.
On July 7, Kasey Ainsworth, 22, of Coventry was arrested and charged with possessing and transporting deer taken in closed season. Arraignment for Ainsworth will be held on August 4 in Orleans Superior Court.
Authorities say that additional arrests are anticipated as a result of the investigation.
Each big game violation carries with it the potential for up to 60 days in jail, a minimum fine of $400, $1000 maximum, and an additional $2000 restitution for each of the illegally killed animals.
If convicted, the men will lose their rights to hunt, fish and trap in Vermont and 43 other states for a period of three years and would be required to pass a remedial outdoor ethics course prior to reinstatement.
