“CDFW officers work to investigate crimes that impact California’s natural resources, including the illegal take of fish and wildlife. Due to the types of cases they investigate, they often come into contact with armed individuals.  We thank them for their service and always wish for their complete safety while on the job.”

CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

TULARE COUNTY – On March 20, 2026, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) announced that officers in Tulare County recently served search warrants and made arrests in Visalia and Farmersville as part of an investigation into egregious deer poaching.

The warrants were served on March 13th following a multi-year investigation spanning Fresno, Tulare and Kern Counties (deer zones D7, D8 and D9). Investigators suspect approximately 30 deer were unlawfully taken by four individuals over the past three years. Many of the animals were allegedly killed out of season, using spotlights, and with other illegal methods.

During the investigation, CDFW officers uncovered both digital and physical evidence indicating deer tags were reused multiple times. In one case, a tag was fraudulently duplicated after already being used to harvest four deer.

Searches resulted in the recovery of numerous deer skulls, a large quantity of processed venison and a firearm without a serial number. CDFW K-9s played a key role in the operation — K-9 Shep alerted to a concealed firearm hidden under a couch, while K-9 Judd located a buried deer head.

This investigation was supported in part by information provided through CalTIP (Californians Turn In Poachers and Polluters), a confidential tip program that plays a critical role in protecting California’s natural resources.

The case has been referred to the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

To report violations anonymously, call 1-888-334-CALTIP (2258). Anyone with a cell phone may send an anonymous tip to CDFW by texting “CALTIP”, followed by a space and the message, to 847411 (tip411).