Game wardens said that "Operation River Raid" has turned out to be one of the most significant cases of illegal wildlife harvesting and distribution in recent state history.
Officials believe the illegal activity involved harvesting catfish from public waterways and transporting them for sale to unregulated or illegally operated pay lakes. Investigators utilized surveillance, intelligence sharing and field inspections to disrupt the illegal activities.
Authorities allege that the defendants failed to report the harvest of a total of more than 300,000 pounds of catfish, a clear violation of Kentucky law.
They said that 25 individuals are to be charged with more than 700 violations. Wardens plan to present more than 100 felony counts to local grand juries, seeking indictments. More charges remain pending as investigators continue reviewing evidence and case materials.
Officials said the scope of the investigation was from Paducah to Ashland. The catfish were harvested from six counties: Livingston, Marshall, Boyd, Bath, Lawrence and Powell.
Due to the active nature of the case, specific names and details are being withheld until court proceedings are underway.
Meanwhile, the public is encouraged to report suspected poaching activity to Kentucky Fish and Wildlife by calling 800-25-ALERT, or by contacting their local game warden at the Find My County Contact webpage on the department’s website (fw.ky.gov).
On the Net:
KDFWR Facebook
