In early September 2014, OSP Fish & Wildlife troopers from Central Point investigated a report of a trophy bull elk killed off Lake Creek Road; only the head was taken with the rest of the elk carcass left to waste. Additionally, troopers received reports of several deer carcasses in the same area which had only the heads removed also. Rewards were offered from several sources totaling over $15,000.00. The Oregon Hunters Association, Humane Society of the United States, and The Cascade Ranch all offered reward monies. After receiving tips from callers OSP Troopers identified two men believed to be responsible for taking the trophy bull elk and four buck deer. The elk and deer antlers were recovered and both men were issued criminal citations to appear in the Jackson County Circuit court. AUSTIN BURKETT, 19, from Eagle Point, was cited for Unlawful Take of Deer (2 counts), Unlawful Take of Elk, and Waste of Wildlife (3 counts). CHRISTIAN D. COCHRAN, 19, from Eagle Point, was cited for Unlawful Take of Deer (2 counts), Aiding in a Wildlife Crime, and Waste of Wildlife. Trooper Josh Nugent is the case officer form this case. Anyone with more information is asked to please call (541) 618-7973. OSP wishes to thank those members of the hunting and angling community for their assistance in identifying the persons responsible for these types of crimes. As always, any person may report wildlife crimes or suspected wildlife crimes anonymously to the OSP Turn in Poachers (TIP) hotline at 1-800-452-7888.
