Brunswick traffic stop leads to arrests, two illegally harvested deer seized

Officers conducting a traffic enforcement stop on Pleasant Hill Road in Brunswick on December 9 found evidence of illegal hunting and multiple criminal violations, resulting in the arrest of one man and the summons of another. Police discovered a loaded crossbow in the front seat of the vehicle and two dead deer in the rear hatch, leading to charges that reflect state prohibitions on night hunting and the unlawful use of archery equipment.

Lee Holbrook, 36, of Durham was arrested at the scene and charged with night hunting, unlawful discharge of archery equipment, hunting without a license, illegal possession of wild animals, carrying a loaded crossbow in a motor vehicle, unlawful use of artificial lights and operating after suspension. Investigators linked a second person to the incident when officers followed fresh footprints in the snow to a nearby location. Robert Little, 36, of Lewiston was located and was summonsed to appear in West Bath District Court.

The two deer recovered from the vehicle were turned over to the Maine Warden Service, which arranged for the animals to be distributed to local food pantries. That decision aimed to salvage community benefit from animals that were illegally harvested, while ensuring disposition consistent with wildlife management protocols.

For Sagadahoc County residents, the episode highlights both public safety implications and the enforcement of hunting regulations that govern seasonal and equipment use. Carrying a loaded crossbow in a vehicle and hunting at night raise risks to motorists, other hunters and residents, and law enforcement agencies say prompt intervention is essential to prevent harm and protect wildlife resources.

Local officials did not release additional statements about pending court schedules for Holbrook. Little has been ordered to appear in West Bath District Court as part of the process. The response by Brunswick police and the Maine Warden Service demonstrates coordinated enforcement and resource recovery that matters to food assistance programs and to community expectations for lawful, safe hunting practices.