Environmental conservation officers stayed busy across New York last year, handling tens of thousands of complaints and making thousands of arrests and ticket issuances.
The state Department of Environmental Conservation says its Environmental Conservation Police Officers and investigators responded to more than 35,500 complaints in 2025, leading to 15,673 tickets or arrests for violations ranging from deer poaching to illegal dumping and pollution offenses.
The enforcement effort included several recent illegal deer hunting cases across the state.
Illegal deer hunts draw charges
In Schoharie County, officers ticketed a hunter accused of shooting a 10-point buck from near a roadway in the Town of Conesville. Officers charged the man with illegally taking protected wildlife and discharging a firearm too close to a dwelling.
In Otsego County, officers uncovered evidence of a deer taken illegally near Basswood State Forest. Investigators later issued tickets for possessing a loaded firearm in a motor vehicle, improper deer tagging, and illegally taking wildlife.
In Jefferson County, an investigation found a hunter admitted to taking seven deer during rifle season, including four bucks. Hunters are allowed only one antlered deer during that season. Officers issued 11 tickets, including six misdemeanors, and seized the antlers as evidence.
In Wyoming County, officers charged a man with illegally harvesting a buck without a hunting license. Investigators said his license had previously been revoked for poaching, and he failed to complete required education to legally hunt again.
Trophy buck poaching leads to fines
In Tioga County, three hunters pleaded guilty to illegally killing an 11-point buck at night while spotlighting from a vehicle. A nearby resident reported the activity, which launched the investigation.
The driver was fined $3,000, while the other two hunters were fined $2,000 each. All three were ordered to surrender the firearm used in the crime.
Training and public safety work
Beyond enforcement, DEC officers also continue training efforts. In Oswego County, officers recently completed first aid instructor training, allowing them to teach CPR, AED use, and other lifesaving skills.
“DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers enforce New York’s Environmental Conservation Law to ensure the protection of public safety and our vast natural resources,” DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said.
Residents can report environmental crimes or emergencies by calling DEC dispatch at 1-844-DEC-ECOS.
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