Kentucky Officials Use Robotic Deer To Catch An Illegal Poacher

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources had to employ a robotic deer to catch a poacher who had previously killed a deer without a license. The man never reported the kill to officials.

On Sunday night, James Malone was arrested after the DFW spotted the poacher casting a spotlight on their robotic deer from his vehicle, which he assumed to be a real deer. It is against state DFW policy to purposefully shine artificial light on any land where wildlife is located because it can blind them, making it easier for them to be killed.

Law enforcement also found methamphetamine when they searched the 29-year-old’s SUV. Per Taylor County booking records, Malone has been charged with spotlighting, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance, hunting or trapping without a license or permit, and littering and illegal taking or pursuing of deer or wild turkey.

He remains in the Taylor County Detention Center. His bail is currently $5,000.