The majestic landscapes of Oregon, bursting with lush forests and abundant wildlife, have long been the pride of its residents. From the casual hiker to the dedicated hunter, all treasure the state’s wildlife – which is why the poaching crime spree near Pendleton, OR, has left many in shock.
28-year-old Walker Erickson, a resident of Pendleton, was recently sentenced after admitting to a series of wildlife crimes spanning 18 months. The repercussions? A whopping $75,000 in fines and jail time during the elk hunting seasons for the next three years.
The state’s determined response to Erickson’s crimes reveals Oregon’s resolute commitment to preserving its wildlife. In August of 2020, an anonymous tip through the Turn In Poachers (TIP) Line set the Oregon State Police (OSP) Fish and Wildlife Troopers on Erickson’s trail. After a year-long investigation, they arrived at his residence and found evidence of his crimes, including deer and elk antlers, a rifle, a bow, and meat.
Erickson’s 22 charges comprised not just of the illegal killings, but also offenses like leaving game animals to waste and trespassing. Among his illicit trophies were those of a 7×7 bull elk – a gem in any hunter’s collection.
However, what stands out in this case is not just the severity of Erickson’s crimes, but also the judicial system’s stern response. Jay Hall, the Wildlife Anti-Poaching Resources Prosecutor, remarked, “Elk season is now jail season.” Hall,
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