WY: Poacher convicted for illegal elk hunting in Wyoming

This case highlights ongoing efforts by the Wyoming Game & Fish Department to preserve wildlife and enforce hunting regulations.

Ackerlund, 45, was found guilty of multiple offenses related to illegal elk hunting. The case came to light on November 25, 2023, when Andy Johnson from Trail Creek Ranch reported suspicious hunting activities to G&F Warden Travis Crane. Ackerlund had been hunting in elk area 54 but was found to have killed a bull elk in the neighboring area 53 without the proper license.

Crane’s investigation included reviewing Ackerlund’s vehicle records, specifically noting a Washington license plate on his grey Ford F350, which matched the descriptions given by witnesses. A search warrant executed on December 5, 2023, at Ackerlund’s residence uncovered the elk’s head, antlers, a rifle, an elk cape, and blood swabs from his pickup truck. Forensic analysis confirmed the elk samples matched those found at the crime scenes.

A forensic search of Ackerlund’s cell phone revealed text messages that were in code. Investigators discovered messages exchanged with a contact labeled “Dad,” using the term “bbd,” which they understood to mean “big bull down.”

These coded messages, along with photographs of dead bull elk, were crucial in establishing Ackerlund’s illegal activities. The photos, which had been deleted but recovered from the phone’s trash folder, depicted the elk he had killed.

Ackerlund was charged with three misdemeanors: entering private property without permission, wanton destruction of a big game animal and taking a bull elk without a license. On July 17, 2024, he entered into a plea deal. He was convicted and sentenced to pay $6,220 in fines and restitution. Additionally, his hunting privileges were suspended for three years.

Larry Eichele, Deputy Park County Attorney, stated, “This conviction sends a clear message that illegal hunting activities will not be tolerated. We are committed to protecting our wildlife and ensuring that hunting regulations are strictly enforced.”

Although Elk populations in Wyoming are not currently endangered illegal hunting poses a significant threat to their sustainability. G&F has been intensifying efforts to combat poaching through increased patrols, public awareness campaigns, and stricter penalties.

Warden Crane emphasized, “Our wildlife resources are invaluable, and we will continue to use all available tools to protect them. This case is a reminder that poaching has serious consequences.”

Wyoming sees an average of 300 poaching cases each year, with Park County accounting for approximately 20 of these cases. G&F has been ramping up efforts to crack down on poaching by employing advanced forensic techniques, increasing patrols in vulnerable areas and promoting the Stop Poaching hotline.