From 2020 to 2024, several bull elk and mule deer bucks were illegally killed in the Bull Mountains near Roundup, Montana. Thanks to a confidential informant, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) game wardens investigated and recently charged six people from Montana and Washington for the unlawful killings, according to a news release.

During the two-state investigation, game wardens discovered that a group comprised of both residents and nonresidents killed bull elk in Hunting District 590 without the required 590-20 elk permits. Several large mule deer bucks were also illegally taken by the group. FWP game wardens traveled to Washington to execute search warrants, seizing a total of 11 poached elk and deer mounts to use as evidence in the investigation. 

While names haven’t been released yet, those involved have been issued 34 total charges and 13 warnings with fines close to $23,000 in bond and restitution, according to the news release. They await processing by the Musselshell County Justice Court.

Further details are still pending.

FWP worked with the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife, the Billings Police Department, and the Musselshell County Attorney’s Office during the investigation.

“This investigation could not be possible without the assistance of these agencies,” said J.D. Douglas, FWP Assistant Chief of Law Enforcement. “This is yet another example of the tenacity and dedication of Montana game wardens to produce quality investigations and hold violators accountable.”