Las Animas County Reward Offered After Elk Poached Near Stonewall

Colorado Parks and Wildlife, in partnership with Operation Game Thief, announced on November 19 that it was offering a $4,000 cash reward for information leading to a citation or an arrest in the illegal poaching and abandonment of four large bull elk in Las Animas County. The animals were illegally shot on three dates in September, the 13th, the 26th and the 27th, on separate ranches near the communities of Stonewall and Picketwire.

Investigators say the four bull elk were found in markedly different states. One animal was shot and left whole, another was wounded and subsequently had to be put down, a third was shot with only the backstraps removed, and the fourth had its head removed while no meat was taken. The circumstances indicate targeted disrespect for game resource and have drawn condemnation from state wildlife officials.

“These were senseless and disgraceful acts which demonstrates a complete disregard for Colorado wildlife,” said Jim Hawkins, CPW Assistant Chief of Law Enforcement and Operation Game Thief coordinator. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is urging anyone with information to contact Operation Game Thief at 1 877 265 6648 or email game.thief@state.co.us. Tips that lead to the filing of charges and witnesses willing to testify may also receive a preference point or a hunting license.

For Las Animas County residents, the case touches on several local priorities. Ranchers whose properties border public lands may worry about trespass and the potential for escalating illegal activity. Hunters in the region face reputational harm when legal sportsmen are associated with wasteful or unlawful behavior. The removal of edible meat from only selected cuts, or the taking of heads without meat, also represents an economic loss and a cultural affront in a region where hunting and stewardship of wildlife are long standing practices.

Under Colorado law, poaching is a felony that can result in substantial fines, license suspensions and possible jail time. The cooperation of local residents, landowners and recreational users can be crucial to building a case that leads to accountability. Authorities emphasized the reward and the potential licensing incentives as tools to encourage people to come forward.

The announcement is part of ongoing efforts by state wildlife officers to deter illegal take and to reinforce rules that sustain game populations and ethical hunting practices. Investigators continue to follow leads and are asking the public to report any information that could help locate those responsible for the shootings.