Keith Lusher 03.10.26
A year-long investigation by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources has led to 116 criminal charges against six people accused of participating in a large poaching operation that investigators say resulted in the illegal killing of hundreds of animals across Hardin and Grayson counties.
Wildlife officials say the group is responsible for the unlawful killing of several hundred animals, including deer, turkeys, foxes and even a domestic pet.
The case began to unravel on July 16, 2024, when game wardens conducted a traffic stop after observing suspects shining high-powered lights across farm fields from a vehicle along public roadways. The practice, known as spotlighting, is illegal in Kentucky and often associated with poaching.
During the stop, wardens discovered several .22-caliber firearms, spotlighting equipment and open alcoholic beverages inside the vehicle.
According to investigators, the group told officers they were raccoon hunting. However, raccoon season was closed at the time, which immediately raised suspicion among the officers involved.
That encounter triggered a deeper investigation by Kentucky Fish and Wildlife officers, who began piecing together evidence of repeated illegal hunts across Hardin and Grayson counties. Over time, investigators concluded the suspects had participated in an organized effort to illegally take wildlife.
Authorities say the activity resulted in the deaths of several hundred animals.
Six individuals between the ages of 18 and 21 are now facing charges tied to the case.
Allen Sauer, 21, of Leitchfield, faces the largest number of charges with 76 violations. Those include 52 counts of illegal take of deer and turkey along with charges related to spotlighting, animal cruelty and unlawful transaction with a minor.
Aden Walker, 21, of Elizabethtown, was charged with illegal take of wildlife, spotlighting and discharging a firearm from a roadway.
Malachi Delatour, 18, of Leitchfield, faces charges including illegal take, animal cruelty and unlawful transaction with a minor.
Joshua Stevenson, 20, of Leitchfield, was charged with illegal take and hunting without permission.
Bradley Webb, 18, of Leitchfield, faces charges including illegal take and taking wildlife from a vehicle.
Madison Whittington, 20, of Leitchfield, was charged with illegal take of deer and turkey.
Officials say poaching cases like this one can have significant impacts on wildlife populations, particularly when large numbers of animals are taken illegally over an extended period of time.
Kentucky Fish and Wildlife officials are encouraging the public to report suspected poaching activity. Tips can be reported by calling 800-25-ALERT, texting “KFWLAW” to tip411 (847411), or by contacting a local Kentucky game warden through the department’s website.
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