“Investigating unlawful hunting, especially at night, puts CDFW officers at risk. The officers are often approaching armed individuals in uneven terrain. Their work is important to protecting California’s natural resources. This investigation also highlights the importance of tips from the public, as CDFW officers can’t be everywhere.”
CSLEA President Alan Barcelona
LOS ANGELES COUNTY – On September 25, 2026 the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) announced the arrest of three individuals whom officers encountered during an unlawful hunting investigation.
Throughout August 2026, CDFW officers received multiple reports of unlawful deer hunting and spotlighting in the Angeles National Forest in Los Angeles County.
After receiving a tip from a vigilant member of the public, officers conducted targeted night patrols in the area. During one of the patrols, officers observed two vehicles off‑roading and shining a spotlight into the forest; an illegal and highly dangerous method of hunting.
Officers stopped both vehicles and detained three individuals. During initial contact, officers noticed blood on the suspects’ clothing and hands, prompting a comprehensive investigation. During the investigation, officers discovered loaded firearms, spotlights within easy reach, and two freshly killed female deer. One deer had been completely skinned, while the other had been quartered; both were headless and concealed in black trash bags. The suspects admitted to illegally killing the deer and attempting to conceal evidence.
All three suspects were arrested on scene and released on their written promise to appear. Officers seized all firearms, both deer, and additional evidence. Multiple violations were documented, including unlawful take of female deer, taking deer without licenses or tags, possession of untagged meat, possession of loaded firearms in a vehicle, illegal method of take, and spotlighting.
If you see or suspect a wildlife crime, please contact CALTIP 24/7 at 1‑888‑334‑2258. Your call makes a difference.
