In a notable achievement, Texas Game Wardens have successfully wrapped up an investigation that culminated in the arrest and conviction of two individuals involved in the illegal transportation of captive white-tailed deer. The South Texas deer breeder and his business partner were caught attempting to smuggle seven deer from an East Texas licensed breeding facility through Montgomery County to Brazoria and Duval counties, intending to release them illegally into the wild on private property.

The bust occurred during a traffic stop by a Montgomery County Game Warden, who discovered the deer being transported without the necessary documentation or identification. Further investigations exposed significant violations of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) statutes and regulations. Both individuals were subsequently arrested and booked into Montgomery County Jail.

The deer breeder faced a total of 41 charges, including one traffic code violation, 11 penal code violations, and 29 deer breeder violations under the Texas Administrative Code and Parks and Wildlife Code. He pled guilty to three penal code violations and 29 deer breeder violations. His business partner faced two penal code violations and 28 deer breeder violations, resulting in convictions on all charges.

Both men were convicted of multiple counts of violating laws designed to circumvent disease monitoring and testing requirements. Their offenses included failing to conduct ante-mortem chronic wasting disease (CWD) testing, failing to obtain valid transfer permits, removing breeder deer without required identification, and illegal possession of live game animals. In total, they were convicted of 57 deer breeder violations, one alcohol violation, and two dangerous drug violations, resulting in $12,060 in fines.

“This case underscores the commitment of TPWD and Texas Game Wardens to protect our state’s natural resources and uphold wildlife regulations,” said Col. Ronald VanderRoest, TPWD Law Enforcement Director. “Flagrant violations, such as intentionally transferring deer without identifiers, hinder Texas’ ability to identify the source of a deer in the event of a disease detection and create potential negative impacts on deer populations and the broader ecological and economic systems.”

Ann Kuykendall, Montgomery County assistant district attorney, added, “This prosecution sends a clear message: those who knowingly violate these laws will be held accountable. This case perfectly illustrates the dedication and hard work of Texas Game Wardens.”

Given the unknown disease status and unacceptable risks associated with their release into the wild, the “ghost deer” in this case were euthanized in accordance with disease testing protocols. TPWD’s stringent actions reflect their dedication to preventing disease spread and ensuring the health of both captive and free-ranging wildlife populations.

Texas Game Wardens, part of the Law Enforcement Division of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, enforce laws related to conservation, management of natural resources, and public safety. Their mission includes providing opportunities for hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation for present and future generations. They also play a critical role in search and rescue operations during natural disasters, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to protecting both the environment and the people of Texas.

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On the Dock with Rick Smith

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