Six Charged in Bull Mountains Poaching Case

Six individuals from Montana and Washington have been charged with 34 counts related to the unlawful killing of several bull elk and mule deer bucks in the Bull Mountains near Roundup, Montana, between 2020 and 2024. The investigation began after a tip from a confidential informant and uncovered that the group killed large bull elk without required permits and mule deer without hunting licenses in a restricted hunting district. Authorities seized 11 mounts of illegally taken animals as evidence and issued close to $23,000 in bond and restitution, along with 13 warnings. Agencies from Montana and Washington, including local law enforcement and wildlife departments, assisted in the investigation. The suspects are scheduled to enter pleas in August in Musselshell County Justice Court. Officials continue to encourage the public to report wildlife crimes for potential rewards.