From deer poaching to illegal fish sales and marine pollution, New York’s Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs) have been busy this year — issuing more than 9,400 tickets and arrests in the first half of 2025 alone.
According to a report from the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), officers responded to nearly 19,000 complaints across the state between January and June, continuing their mission to protect wildlife, water, and public safety.
Two-year deer poaching investigation ends in conviction
One of the most notable cases involved a Wyoming County man, Tyler D. Jennings, who pleaded guilty in July after a nearly two-year investigation. ECOs found he had illegally taken at least 15 antlered deer since 2019 — including one large buck he tagged with an expired 2018 tag.
Jennings paid $6,000 in fines and lost his hunting privileges for five years.
Illegal dumping and boat fire in downstate incidents
- Brookhaven (Suffolk County): ECOs cited a man caught dumping construction debris off I-495. He was fined $3,000 and ordered to remove the trash.
- Staten Island: ECOs were first on the scene of a sailboat fire in New York Harbor. Two crew members were rescued, and the cause remains under investigation.
Fishing violations lead to dozens of tickets
From Manhattan to Jones Beach, ECOs issued more than 40 tickets for illegal fish sales, out-of-season catches, and use of nets in prohibited areas. Thousands of Atlantic silversides and several undersized species — including black sea bass and oyster toadfish — were recovered.
Deer rescue and outreach efforts
In Islip, ECOs safely freed a deer tangled in a soccer net with help from local residents. Meanwhile, officers attended career fairs at SUNY Albany and SUNY ESF, encouraging students to explore careers in conservation enforcement.
Governor honors law enforcement
On Sept. 19, Governor Kathy Hochul hosted a Public Safety Appreciation Reception in Albany, recognizing the efforts of law enforcement — including DEC officers — in protecting both public safety and the environment.
To report an environmental crime or concern, call 1-844-DEC-ECOS for 24/7 dispatch.
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