12 Charged with Poaching In Kansas

Twelve people have been charged in U.S. District Court in Wichita with poaching deer in Kansas, the U.S. attorney's office said Thursday. The 12, at least eight of whom reside in Texas, were charged with committing the misdemeanor offenses in 2006, 2007 and 2008.

They are among 60 people who could be charged with breaking state and federal hunting laws while at Camp Lone Star in Comanche County.

Camp Lone Star owner James Butler Jr. and his

brother, guide Marlin Butler, were sentenced in June for their part in running operations at the camp.

James Butler was sentenced to 41 months in jail and fined $50,000 for conspiracy and illegally trafficking game across state lines.

Marlin Butler was sentenced to 27 months in jail and ordered to pay $20,000. Both men are appealing their sentences.

Investigations said Camp Lone Star clients illegally shot deer after dark with the aid of lights and night-vision equipment, shot them with rifles during the archery season, and placed illegal permits on the deer.

More than 100 mounted deer or antlers have been

confiscated from Camp Lone Star personnel or clients. Camp clients paid between $2,500 and $5,500 to hunt with the Butlers.

Among those charged were Charles B. Sapp, 32, Center, Texas; Douglas Baker, 52, Palestine, Texas; Zach Belrose, 21, Center, Texas; Kyle Bush, 39, Timpson, Texas; James Donnan, 57, Center, Texas; James Jacobs, 41, Shelbyville, Texas; Michael Scarber, 31, Center, Texas; and Arthur Clemons, 67, Cushing, Texas;

Also charged were Jerry Deville, 39, Denham Springs, La.; Michael Herne, 37, Monroe, La.; Harry Wells, 53, Denham Springs, La.; and Bazil Moore, whose age and hometown were unavailable.

 

BY HURST LAVIANA