JEMEZ SPRINGS – Darryl Vigil and Clifford Vigil were found guilty of poaching a 5 x 5 mule deer buck with a 30-06 rifle while cutting fuelwood Nov. 29, 2015, in the Santa Fe National Forest off Forest Road 10 in Paliza Canyon.
Corporal Shawn Carrell investigated the reported violation, and collaboration with Jemez Pueblo Officers resulted in the voluntary confession and seizure of the 5 x 5 mule deer skull, packages of meat, remaining deer parts and the photograph of the poached deer.
The Vigils were ordered by Sandoval County Magistrate Judge Bill Mast to pay $1,052 in criminal fines. The poachers agreed to voluntarily pay $4,000 in civil damages to the state for the loss of the trophy animal. The deer scored 160 5/8 according to the Safari Club International measuring system.
The Department encourages anyone with information about violations of New Mexico’s wildlife laws to call Operation Game Thief toll-free, (800) 432-GAME (4263), or to visit www.wildlife.state.nm.us. Callers can remain anonymous and earn rewards if information leads to charges being filed.