Illinois Conservation Police Close Yearlong Turkey Poaching Investigation
Illinois Conservation Police have concluded an extensive investigation into the poaching of more than 20 wild turkeys by out-of-state hunters in the Alton-Wood River area in Madison County.
Conservation police initiated an investigation in March 2022 after wild turkey carcasses were located. During the investigation, authorities identified individuals who had been poaching wild turkeys at night in or near the city limits of Hartford, Alton and Wood River. It was determined the men used AR-style rifles equipped with thermal imaging scopes and suppressors.
“Poaching is a serious crime that can cause tremendous harm to wildlife and biodiversity," said Jed Whitchurch, director of the Illinois Department of of Natural Resources Office of Law Enforcement. "Conservation laws are in place to ensure wildlife resources are around for future generations to enjoy. I encourage anyone who is aware of poaching crimes in Illinois to come forward with tips. People have a responsibility to understand these laws and to follow them.”
Seven people were arrested in connection with the investigation, and a total of 63 misdemeanor charges were filed against them. Individuals charged were Dustin Goldsmith of McCall Creek, Mississippi; Hunter Baxter of Lucedale, Mississippi; Nick Henley of Monticello, Arkansas; Benjamin Emerson of Lucedale, Mississippi; Dakota Jarratt of Wilmar, Arkansas; Matthew McClendon of Augusta, Georgia; and Jacob Russell of Ruth, Mississippi.
Additional felony charges were filed against Baxter and Goldsmith. Baxter has been charged with two felony counts in Madison County, including possession of a suppressed firearm and resource theft more than $3,000. Goldsmith has been charged with a felony count of resource theft of more than $3,000.
“We are working for the people of Illinois that enjoy our natural resources,” said Illinois Conservation Police Sergeant Eric Manker. “It is instances like this that drive us to go above and beyond the line of duty. I am very proud of my officers who put in a lot of hard work and hours into this investigation. We are pleased to bring these egregious acts to the court of law. This is a win for our wildlife and the folks who cherish it.”
In addition to allegedly poaching more than 20 wild turkeys, police also alleged three cotton-tailed rabbits were poached from a vehicle with a suppressed rifle equipped with thermal imaging scopes in Calhoun County. Court dates have been set in both Madison and Calhoun counties for all individuals involved. The defendants are presumed innocent unless proved guilty.
“The NWTF has always worked closely with our state agency partners to ensure that healthy habitats lead to healthy harvests,” said John Burk, NWTF district biologist for Missouri, Iowa and Illinois. “Our focus is usually centered on doing the work that creates and maintains quality habitat and in educating folks on the joys of outdoor recreation. However, we are also completely supportive and appreciative of the enforcement efforts necessary to protect the resources we cherish from the negative actions of those that don’t seem to share our same values.”