Field operations weekly report, 2013 March 17-30

Department of Natural Resources
Wildlife Resources Division Law Enforcement Section
Field Operations
Weekly Report March 17 30, 2013
This report is a broad sampling of events that have taken place in the past week, but does not include all actions taken by the Law Enforcement Section.

Region I- Calhoun (Northwest)
BARTOW COUNTY On March 23rd, Cpl. Byron Young and Ranger Zack Hardy checked baited areas they had been working for last two turkey seasons. The officers located 3 hunters hunting in ground blinds. Both whole and cracked corn was located less than 10 yards from each blind. The officers issued citations for hunting big game over bait and hunting without a license.
CHEROKEE COUNTY On March 17th, Cpl. Byron Young and RFC Brooks Varnell patrolled Allatoona Lake for fishing activity. The officers checked 19 boats and 30 fishing licenses. The officers issued citations for fishing without a license, operating a vessel without registration, and allowing an underage child to ridge a moving vessel without a PFD's (lifejackets).
On March 18th, RFC Bart Hendrix finished up an I/E program with the Cub Scouts of Pack 625 in Woodstock. Over two den meetings, RFC Hendrix taught the scouts about protected and endangered species, conservation and wildlife protection, and the duties assigned to a conservation officer. The scouts completed homework assignments geared toward protected and endangered species and presented their work to the den. Upon completion of their work the scouts received their wildlife conservation belt loop and wildlife conservation pin. They will also present the work to the scout pack at the next pack meeting.
On March 22nd, Cpl. Lee Burns and RFC Bart Hendrix attended the official opening of Hickory Log Reservoir in Canton. All of the city of Canton's elected officials were in attendance. The rangers were on hand to answer fishing and boating questions and meet the city officials. The new reservoir is about 500 acres and will offer the public a great opportunity for fishing and boating. The DNR and the city of Canton would like to remind the public that all boating and fishing laws, rules, and regulations will apply to those taking advantage of this area. Also, there are no gas powered motors allowed on the lake. Hickory Log Reservoir will be patrolled by the city of Canton and the DNR.
On March 23rd, RFC Hendrix checked a turkey hunter near the Buffington community hunting over bait. The area was baited with whole corn. The hunter was issued a citation for hunting big game over bait.
On March 23rd, Cpl. Burns and RFC Hendrix responded to an in progress complaint of hunting without permission at Cobb Legion Hunting Club. After a brief investigation and assistance from Deputy Yarborough with the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office, the rangers were able to determine that the two hunters were hunting on the club without permission. The hunters were issued a citation for hunting without permission and one hunter was warned for hunting with an unplugged shotgun.

FANNIN COUNTY On March 17th, RFC Cody Jones was patrolling the Delayed Harvest section of the Toccoa River and observed two subjects fishing with corn and worms. Only artificial bait is allowed on the delay harvest section until May 15th. Each subject was issued a citation. GILMER COUNTY On March 11th, RFC Cody Jones observed smoke coming from a residential area. Concerned for the occupants the residence, RFC Jones went to assist but found that the source of the smoke was an illegal burn. The subject was issued a citation.
On March 12th Cpl. James Keener and RFC Joe Hill investigated a hunting incident that occurred on February 27. Three subjects were hunting in the early hours of the morning on the 27th when the barrel of the shotgun they were carrying became obstructed with mud. One subject accidently discharged the firearm causing the barrel to explode. The subject received a cut to the head and a pellet in the leg. GCSO arrested one subject, not injured, on the 27th for giving false statements. During the investigation, the officers discovered the subject injured was a convicted felon and all three subjects did not have hunter's safety certification or a valid hunting license. On March 13th, Sgt. John VanLandingham, Cpl. Keener, and RFC Hill executed a search warrant at the residence of the subject that was injured. This person was arrested for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and hunting without a license. The subject that was arrested by GCSO was still in the Gilmer County Detention Center, so RFC Hill secured a warrant for him

for hunting without a license. The third subject was issued a citation for hunting without a license and warned for hunting without hunter's safety certification.
On March 16th, RFC Joe Hill patrolled Tickanetly Creek. The officer checked three fishermen and issued one citation for fishing without a license.
GORDON COUNTY On March 23rd, Cpl. Shawn Elmore located two hunters in a blind over-looking an area baited with bird seed. This same area had been baited and worked by Cpl. Elmore and other rangers throughout the 2012 season with no one being caught. Rangers had located and collected evidence of several turkeys that had been killed opening weekend 2012. Cpl. Elmore interviewed the Adairsville man about hunting in 2012. The Adairsville man admitted to killing three gobblers opening day March 24, 2012 in an area baited with birdseed. The Adairsville man was charged with hunting big game over bait for 2013, hunting big game over bait for 2012 and possession of illegally taken wildlife for 2012. The other hunter was from Tennessee and was charged with hunting big game over bait, non-resident hunting without license, and warned for non-resident hunting big game without big game license.
HARALSON COUNTY On March 23rd, RFC Daniel Gray was conducting a routine patrol in Haralson County checking turkey hunters. Two areas which were baited for turkey hunting were checked. Three individuals were cited for hunting big game over bait and one individual was cited for unlawful enticement of game. One warning was issued for hunting w/o a big game license.
WHITFIELD COUNTY On March 9th, Cpl. James Keener and RFC Cody Jones utilized the DNR Laser Shot at the Safari Club International banquet in Chattanooga, TN. The Safari Club International presented Cpl. Keener with a plaque to recognize him as the Safari Club International Northwest Georgia Chapter, Officer of the Year.
Region II- Gainesville (Northeast)
DAWSON COUNTY On March 17th, Sgt. Lee Brown and RFC Mitchell Crump patrolled Dawson Forest WMA. On the City of Atlanta Tract horseback riders were checked and given verbal guidance for not properly filling out their permit and for not purchasing a permit before riding.
The rangers patrolled the Delayed Harvest Stream and the trail to the "Edge of the World Rapids" checking fishing licenses, GORP compliance and other WMA violations. While walking the trail the rangers encountered three subjects consuming alcohol. The subjects were issued written warnings for unlawful consumption of alcohol on a WMA. The rangers also patrolled the Delayed Harvest Stream on Steele Bridge Road. Fishing licenses were checked and others for GORP compliance. Two underage subjects were

encountered along the stream consuming alcohol. Citations and warnings were issued for underage possession of alcohol, unlawful consumption of alcohol on a WMA and not possession a GROP pass.
On March 23rd, Cpl. Eric Sanders and Cpl. Eddie Tompkins checked hunters on Dawson Forest WMA for opening day of turkey season. The rangers located a subject from Idaho that stated he was assisting a hunter by calling. The subject was informed of the requirements for license and issued warnings and verbal guidance.
On March 30th, RFC Barry Britt issued a warning to a fisherman for possession of trout on the Delayed Harvest Stream on the Amicalola Creek on Dawson Forest WMA. The fisherman had one trout on a stringer and released it alive back into the creek.
Later that day while patrolling Dawson Forest WMA, RFC Barry Britt and Wildlife Technician III David Shattuck issued two citations for illegal consumption of alcohol on a WMA.
March 30th, Cpl. Eric Sanders and Wildlife Technician III David Shattuck Dawson Forest WMA for the opening weekend of trout season and for turkey hunters. The rangers issued citations for hunting with an unplugged shotgun and hunting without a hunting license. These two rangers found an illegal trash dump at Six Mile put in on the Amicalola River and turned the evidence over to RFC Barry Britt to follow up on. The rangers issued on citation for fishing with illegal bait in the Delayed Harvest Stream and the subject was arrested on an outstanding warrant and transported to the Dawson County Jail. The rangers gave verbal guidance to numerous subjects for not possessing a GORP pass.
DEKALB COUNTY On March 21st, Cpl. Eric Sanders conducted an On-Line Hunter Education Class at the Tucker Park and Recreation Department. A total of 28 students were certified in Hunter Education.
FORSYTH COUNTY On March 17th, Sgt. Lee Brown was notified that two fishermen in Bald Ridge Creek on Lake Lanier had found a body floating. With the assistance from the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office and the Forsyth County Fire Department the body was recovered. It was later determined that this was the body of the fisherman that went missing from his boat on February 11th.
LUMPKIN COUNTY On March 23rd, RFC Mitchell Crump and Captain Thomas Barnard caught two subjects hunting turkeys over bait. Citations and warnings were issued for the infraction.
Later that day they were patrolling Jones Creek and encountered a subject fishing in a closed trout stream. This stream is also an artificial only stream. The subject was fishing

with illegal equipment and worms. Citations and warnings were issued for these infractions. On March 30th, Sgt. Lee Brown and RFC Mitchell Crump patrolled Chestatee WMA (Dick's Creek, Boggs Creek and Dockery Lake) for the opening day of trout season. The rangers checked 100+ fishing licenses on this day and 6 turkey hunters. Verbal guidance and written warnings were issued for nonresident fishing without a license, non-resident fishing without a trout license, fishing without a fishing license, fishing without a trout license, opening a vessel without PFD's, transporting a loaded firearm on a WMA and hunting without a license on person. WHITE COUNTY
On March 23rd, Sgt. Greg Colson and RFC Anne Alexander were patrolling the Chattahoochee Wildlife Management Area for turkey hunting activity. They checked a hunter leaving the area on the upper end of the wildlife management area. RFC Alexander noticed the hunter was acting like he was out of breath. She asked him if he was ok and he said he was ok, and explained he had just been running after a turkey. She asked him if he was successful in running down the turkey and he said he was, but he had killed a hen. He explained he had seen a gobbler and shot at it, but a hen was near it. The gobbler ran off and the hen was killed. He pulled the hen out of the truck from behind the seat of his vehicle. RFC Alexander charged him for possession of illegally taken wildlife and warned him for not having a wildlife management area license. Later this same afternoon, Sgt. Steve Seitz and Wildlife Tech Frank Manning patrolled the Chattahoochee River on the WMA when they located 2 subjects fishing in the closed trout stream. One of the subjects did not possess a fishing license or trout stamp. The officers issued each subject a citation for fishing in closed trout waters and the subject

that did not possess a license was issued an additional citation for fishing without a license and a warning for fishing without a trout stamp.
HART COUNTY On March 20th, RFC Brandon Pierce patrolled fishing areas around Hartwell Lake for boating safety/fishing activity. A total of three fishing licenses were inspected. As a result, one violation was documented. The violation consisted of fishing without a license.
BANKS COUNTY On March 23rd, Cpl. Adam Loudermilk and RFC Eric Isom patrolled Banks County for turkey hunting. During the patrol they located four hunters hunting over bait. Citations and warnings were issued for hunting big game over bait, hunting without a license, hunting without a big game license, and hunting without hunter safety certification.
HALL COUNTY On March 21st, Cpl. Jason Roberson conducted a hunter safety class in Hall County. Thirteen students were certified.
On March 23rd, Cpl. Jason Roberson taught a boating safety class at Gainesville Marina. Eighteen students were certified.
GWINNETT COUNTY On March 30th, Cpl. Eric Sanders checked the Chattahoochee River for fishermen and issued two citations for fishing/possession with illegal bait and a citation for fishing with unlawful equipment (2 poles).
HABERSHAM COUNTY On March 23rd and 24th, opening weekend of turkey hunting season, RFC Chad Chambers located and charged two subjects for hunting turkeys over bait.
Region III- Thomson (East Central)
WASHINGTON COUNTY Corporal Micheal Crawley and K9 Storm worked turkey hunting activity in Washington County on March 23, 2013. Corporal Crawley used K9 Storm to help him track a subject that was hunting turkeys over bait. Corporal Crawley and K9 Storm also assisted RFC Brian Adams near Gibson with hunting over bait case and an ongoing investigation of hunting out of season.
On March 29, Cpl. Micheal Crawley responded to a call of four lost hunters on the Ogeechee River near the Washington/Jefferson County Line. The four were able to give Cpl. Crawley information off of a posted sign. Cpl. Crawley knew where that property was at and was able to locate the four individuals after wading through water. The Ogeechee River separated Cpl. Crawley from the subjects. One of the four jumped in the river and had to be rescued by Cpl. Crawley. All four individuals were rescued once

daylight fell. Others that assisted with the search and rescue effort were Sgt. Max Boswell, Sgt. Matt Garthright, Cpl. Ben Payne, RFC Jeff Billips, and RFC Leroy Ficklin.
COLUMBIA COUNTY On Saturday March 23 RFC Bobby Timmerman presented an Information and Education program at Parkway Baptist Church during a Wild Game Supper.
GLASCOCK COUNTY Three weeks ago RFC Brian Adams received a complaint that two subjects were hunting turkeys out of season. According to a complainant the subjects had already killed three gobblers and a Jake in the County Line Rd and Log Cabin Rd area. Adams checked the area but was unable to locate where the birds were killed. Adams did find one area baited with cracked corn. Adams checked the area several times but was unable to locate anyone hunting. On opening day of turkey season Adams caught two subjects hunting over the bait. Adams interviewed the subjects about the hunting out of season. One of the subjects stated that he may have been with some one that had killed some turkeys but that he did not. The second subject stated that he knew about the four turkeys and that they had been killed out of season. Adams then went to the alleged suspects work and interviewed him. He confessed that he and one of the subjects Adams caught opening day had killed four turkeys out of season and without permission. Both subjects were charged with two hunting turkey over bait, one hunting without license, one hunting without big game, two hunting without permission, two hunting out of season, and four possession of illegally taken wildlife.
MCDUFFIE COUNTY On Saturday March 23, Cpl. Ryan Swain and RFC Bobby Timmerman located a truck that had bags of corn in the bed. Officers checked the area and located two subjects hunting over bait. Both subjects were charged with hunting big game over bait.
TALIAFERRO COUNTY On Saturday March 23, RFC Leroy Ficklin and Sgt. Doyte Chaffin checked several baited areas in the Sharon and Crawfordville area. No one was located hunting the areas.
GREENE COUNTY On March 17, while on patrol, Cpl. Derrell Worth cited a subject for unlawful burning of egregious litter, cited one subject for fishing without a license, and another for allowing a child under 10 to ride in a moving vessel without a personal floatation device.
On March 17, while patrolling Chico Road, made contact with a subject in the middle of the roadway. Upon further investigation, the subject was in possession of a misdemeanor amount of marijuana and violating the conditions of his driver's license suspension.
MORGAN COUNTY On March 23 while patrolling a property in Morgan County, RFC Ricky Boles encountered four turkey hunters hunting over bait. The hunters had scattered sunflower seed, wheat, and cracked corn in the areas of the turkey blinds. The subjects were also

non-residents which only one possessed a valid Georgia hunting license. The hunters were charged with hunting big game over bait, non-residents hunting without a big game license, and hunting without a license. Subjects released on citations.
WALTON COUNTY On March 23, RFC Niki Spencer and RFC Ricky Boles taught a hunter education class in Monroe. Twenty four students were certified in firearm and hunter safety. Several of the students that attended are on the 4-H shooting team, for "RED".
On March 23, Cpl. Derrell Worth attended the annual Natural Resources Foundation located at Arrowhatchee. The participants shot skeet. Firearm safety was discussed along with general questions and answers.
RICHMOND COUNTY March 23, Cpl. Ben Payne, Sgt. Max Boswell and Rfc. Jeff Billips competed in the Cooking for Kids Event. Commissioner Joe Jackson assisted with the cooking. The event raises money for Child Enrichment, an organization that helps abused children. Rangers competed in all 4 categories Big Game, Small Game, Fish and Barbeque. They cooked deer back strap, quail, largemouth bass, and pulled pork. They won 2nd place in Big Game and 3rd place in Small Game. The event raised $45,000 for Child Enrichment. Rangers also handed out literature and answered questions about hunting and fishing.
On March 26, Cpl. Ben Payne worked checking hunting clubs and private lands for turkey baiting. While on patrol on a hunt club he spotted a set of fresh tire tracks leading into a thick wooded area. After following the tracks he discovered a large pile of trash that had been dumped behind a tower stand in a wildlife food plot. After digging through the trash he discovered evidence of where the trash came from. After investigating the suspect he followed up on leads which eventually turned up the violator. Citations are pending in the case.
WILKES COUNTY On March 23rd, Sgt. Brian Carter and Cpl. Mark Patterson checked areas known to be baited for turkey. One subject was charged for hunting big game over bait. Later in the day while investigating a complaint, two subjects were checked turkey hunting. Violations for hunting without a license and hunting with an unplugged shotgun were documented.
CLARKE COUNTY On Saturday March 23, RFC Tim Butler issued two warnings for hunting turkey over bait.
OCONEE COUNTY On Wednesday March 20, RFC Phillip Nelson and Tech 3 Kevin Von Seggern taught 2 information and education programs at the Oconee County Primary School. The programs were about wildlife habitats. They also showed the animal pelt collection to the students.

OGLETHORPE COUNTY On Thursday March 21, RFC Phillip Nelson taught a Hunter Education program. RFC Nelson certified 10 students.
On Friday, March 29, RFC Phillip Nelson and Tech III Kevin VonSeggern were patrolling Redlands WMA when they checked a subject who had been turkey hunting. Upon talking to him he told them that he had also been picking Morrell Mushrooms off the WMA. He was in possession of 38 mushrooms. They explained to him that it was illegal and they took his information and turned it over to US Forestry Service.
On Saturday, March 30, RFC Phillip Nelson caught two subjects hunting turkeys over bait.
ELBERT COUNTY On Saturday, March 30, Cpl. Julian Wilkins and RFC Phillip Nelson patrolled Lake Russell in the Cold Water Creek area. Officers had three contacts for non-residents fishing without fishing license. One warning was issued for insufficient PFD's and one contact for resident fishing with expired license.
Region IV- Macon (West Central)
BALDWIN COUNTY On March 23rd, Corporal Josh Copelan cited two hunters for hunting over bait and possession of illegally taken wildlife. The two hunters had shot two turkeys that were in a field where corn had been located.

On the evening of March 27th, Ranger Derek Cobb and Corporal Bubba Stanford responded to the Oconee River south of Milledgeville in reference to kayakers stranded on the river. The officers launched a boat in high water and darkness and traveled approximately 8 miles downriver where they located the subjects who were showing early signs of hypothermia. The subjects were taking to a nearby landing where they were picked up by Sergeant Bo Kelly and taken home.
BIBB COUNTY On March 23rd, Ranger David Fisher and Corporal Robert Stillwell checked a hunting club where turkey bait had been located in the days leading up to turkey season. One subject was apprehended and charged with hunting big game over bait.
CRAWFORD COUNTY On the morning of March 23rd, Sergeant Tony Fox checked a baited area that Ranger David Fisher had discovered the previous week. Upon locating a hunter sitting near the bait, which consisted of wheat and corn, the officer inquired as to the hunter's knowledge of its presence. The hunter admitted to having placed the feed and was issued a citation for the offense of hunting big game over bait.
FAYETTE COUNTY On the morning of March 23rd, at 0630 RFC Travis Sweat and Sergeant Brent Railey were checking a baited area. Shortly after dawn, the two Rangers heard the unmistakable call of a turkey coming from the baited area. The Rangers then made their way down the wooded road to the baited site. As they patrolled the area around the baited site, Sergeant Railey located the hunter sitting next to a tree trying to be as still and quiet as possible, so as to not been seen. Once apprehended, the subject was issued a citation for hunting over bait, and he admitted to baiting the turkeys with grain sorghum. Once the citations were complete, the two rangers walked through the woods to an open pasture on a different piece of property. Once at the fence, they heard more turkey calls and RFC Sweat identified two decoys at the top of the hill. The Rangers approached two enclosed blinds with caution, and RFC Sweat identified themselves as Game Wardens. Two men exited the blinds and the Rangers informed them that they were hunting over cracked corn. The two hunters admitted to placing the corn out, but thought it was gone. The two hunters were issued citations for hunting over bait.
JONES COUNTY On March 23rd, Ranger Jeremy Reece and Sergeant Bo Kelly checked three areas that had been baited for turkeys. One hunter was located hunting over a baited area, and was issued a citation.
On the morning of March 25th, Ranger Jeremy Reese and Corporal Bubba Stanford checked a baited area. The Rangers located a hunter hunting in the area and he was charged with hunting turkeys over bait, hunting without a license and hunting without a big game license.

On the morning of March 29th, Ranger Jeremy Reese checked an area that he had previously discovered was baited for turkeys. Ranger Reese located 2 hunters hunting over the baited area and citations were issued for the offenses.
On the morning of March 30th, Ranger Reese checked a baited turkey blind. One hunter was located in the blind and a citation was issued for the offense.
PUTNAM COUNTY On March 23rd, Corporal Lynn Stanford and Ranger Derek Cobb checked several hunting areas that had been baited for turkey. Six hunters were cited for hunting turkey over bait.
On the morning of March 26th, Corporal Bubba Stanford and Ranger Derek Cobb responded to the gun range area of Bradley Road on Cedar Creek WMA in reference to illegal hunting. Two hunters had witnessed someone shoot a turkey from the road and from a vehicle. Evidence was collected at the scene and it is still under investigation. If anyone has more information in reference to the incident please call (478)751-6415.
On the morning of March 30th, Corporal Bubba Stanford checked a baited area in south Putnam County. Two hunters were located hunting the area and citations were issued.
TALBOT COUNTY On March 18th, Corporal Jeremy Bolen was the guest speaker at the Talbot County Lion's Club meeting. Corporal Bolen presented an information and education program about DNR's K-9 program. Corporal Bolen also performed a demonstration on wildlife detection to the group. Corporal Bolen was the guest speaker at the Talbot County Chamber of Commerce meeting later the same day. Corporal Bolen presented a power point presentation to this group about the responsibilities of DNR.
TROUP COUNTY On the morning of March 23rd, Ranger Russell Epps and Sergeant Jim Bradfield were patrolling a piece of property in Troup County where Ranger Epps had located a large amount of whole cornel corn the previous week. Two individuals were located and charged with hunting big game over bait.
On Wednesday March 27th, Sergeant Jim Bradfield heard a call on Troup 911 indicating that a man was trapped under a fallen tree. Sergeant Bradfield was close by and responded along with EMS and a Troup County Deputy. Upon arrival an adult male was discovered trapped under a large pine tree. The man had been about 35 feet up in the tree and was knocked out of the tree when he cut the top of the tree out. The man was conscious and alert but had several obvious injuries. He was air lifted from the scene.
BUTTS COUNTY On March 24th, RFC Keith Page, K9 Drake and Corporal Susan Morris followed footprints to an area and found a man and his son turkey hunting on Walter Moore Road. The area was baited and the man admitted to putting out bird seed in the area. He was issued a citation for hunting big game over bait.

HARRIS COUNTY On March 24th, Corporal Mitch Oliver was patrolling for hunter activity when he located a truck parked in a hunting camp. Corporal Oliver noticed a freshly killed turkey carcass at one end of the cabin porch and also saw an unopened bag of feed wheat on the porch. Eventually the hunter came back from his evening hunt and Corporal Oliver asked him about the turkey. The hunter said that he had killed a jake turkey on the morning of the 24th. Corporal Oliver then ask the hunter about the wheat and he said that he had put some wheat out earlier, but that it was all gone or sprouting. The hunter agreed to show Corporal Oliver where the turkey had been killed, but due to the approaching darkness and distance to the area, they decided to meet the next morning. On the morning of the 25th, Corporal Oliver and the hunter walked in to where the turkey had been killed the previous morning. Corporal Oliver was able to locate fresh wheat in the hardwood bottom in front of the blind. There was fresh wheat under and on top of the leaves along with some sprouting as the hunter stated. The hunter said that he was wrong about the wheat being gone and that he should have checked the area better. The hunter also showed Corporal Oliver where the bird had been standing when shot and there were feathers strewn about. The hunter was issued a citation for hunting big game over bait and was given a warning for possession of illegally taken wildlife..
On March 29th, Corporal Oliver received a complaint that a turkey had just been shot from the road and the caller had a description of the truck. Corporal Oliver and Sergeant Jim Bradfield developed a lead on a suspect and began investigating. The two officers met to interview the suspect in Hamilton, Georgia after confirming that he was home. During the interview, the suspect admitted to killing a turkey that morning, but said that he had killed it on his hunting lease. The officers asked to search the suspect's truck and were granted permission. In the back seat of the truck, the officers found feathers from a turkey. The suspect told the officers he would take them to his hunting lease and show them where he had shot the turkey. Even though the officers felt this was a waste of time, they obliged. Corporal Oliver went to retrieve the turkey carcass at the location the suspect said he had disposed of it and Sergeant Bradfield and the suspect to the hunting lease. While still at the hunting lease gate, the suspect confessed to shooting the turkey from the road and made a written statement. The officers went to the scene of the incident where they gathered additional evidence and also discovered that the turkey was not standing on the right of way when shot but was on adjacent private property. Warrants will be taken for the suspect and he will be charged with hunting from a public road, hunting from a motor vehicle, and hunting without permission. The meat, beard, and spurs were seized from the suspect's residence.
LAMAR COUNTY On March 23rd, RFC Keith Page and K9 Drake called Corporal Susan Morris and Corporal Tony Wynne to assist with apprehending several subjects that were suspected of hunting turkey over bait on Mann Road. RFC Page and Drake found a man leaving the property, who after a brief investigation, admitted to hunting the baited area. The Rangers then located a second subject who was hog hunting, but was found to be a convicted felon. After confirming several felony convictions on the man's criminal

history, RFC Page placed the man under arrest and had him transported to the Lamar County Jail. RFC Page seized the man's shotgun and ammunition to be held as evidence until trial. The other hunter was issued a citation for hunting big game over bait.
Region V- Albany (Southwest)
THOMAS COUNTY On March 23rd, Sgt. David Ruddell located and cited a turkey hunter for hunting big game over bait.
LAKE WALTER F. GEORGE After receiving a report of a missing boater on Saturday afternoon, Ft. Benning authorities conducted a search and found the boater's unoccupied vessel at 9:00 p.m. Saturday night. RFC Jim Atchley and Sgt. Butch Potter were contacted Sunday morning and responded to the scene and began a search with DNRs towable side scan sonar unit. After approximately 45 minutes of searching, RFC Atchley located the victim several hundred yards from the concentrated search area. The 35 year old male's body was then recovered by divers.
STEWART COUNTY On March 23rd, Cpl. Steve Robinson and RFC Jim Atchley located and cited two turkey hunters for hunting big game over bait.
Sgt. Butch Potter conducted a night patrol on Lake WF George where warnings were issued for operating with improper lights; operating without a fire extinguisher and possession of undersize fish.
TERRELL COUNTY On March 23rd, Cpl. Scott Carroll located and cited one turkey hunter for hunting big game over bait and another for hunting with an unplugged gun.
On Saturday morning March 29th, Cpl. Scott Carroll issued two citations for hunting turkey without a license.
RANDOLPH COUNTY On March 23rd, Sgt. Butch Potter issued one citation for hunting with illegal ammunition (00B), and one for hunting with an unplugged gun.
DECATUR COUNTY On March 20th, RFC Tony Cox and Cpl. Randy Davis responded to a landowner complaint of a subject trespassing on his property along the Flint River. The male subject was cited for collecting artifacts without permission, and fishing without a non-resident fishing license.

On March 24th, RFC Tony Cox and Ranger Jace Heard cited two turkey hunters for hunting big game over bait, hunting with an unplugged shotgun, and non-resident hunting without a big game license.
On March 29th, RFC Tony Cox conducted a patrol on Silver Lake WMA, citing 1 hunter for hunting with an unplugged shotgun.
SEMINOLE COUNTY On March 23rd, Ranger Jace Heard cited a turkey hunter for hunting big game over bait.
MITCHELL COUNTY On March 24th, Cpl. Randy Davis responded to a complaint from a landowner and cited 3 subjects for fishing on lands of another without permission.
DOUGHERTY COUNTY On March 24th, Cpl. Robbie Griner was patrolling along the Flint River below the Georgia Power Dam for boating and fishing activity. Upon entering the parking lot, the officer noticed a man standing beside a vehicle drinking a beer. Cpl. Griner approached the subject and noticed two juveniles were seated inside the car. As the officer discussed the alcohol with the driver, he noticed one of the subjects in the car fumbling with something in the floorboard. Cpl. Griner approached and noticed a plastic bag of suspected marijuana beside the feet of one of the passengers. Cpl. Griner contacted the Albany Dougherty Drug Unit for assistance and a positive ID was made of the substance as marijuana. The adult male driver was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana, while the two juvenile passengers were released to their parents. The subject that attempted to hide the drugs will be summoned before the Dougherty County Juvenile Court.
Region VI- Metter (Southeast)
SCREVEN COUNTY On March 23rd, Cpl. Shaymus McNeely and Sgt. Don Dasher worked turkey hunting activity on Tuckahoe WMA. One subject was screened for field sobriety and one citation was issued for hunting without license on person.
EFFINGHAM COUNTY On March 1st RFC Jamey O'Brien responded to a call of an over-turned boat that was found in a remote part of Ebenezer Creek. O'Brien met local fire/rescue personnel who also responded at the nearest boat ramp. After locating and investigating the area where the boat was found, it did not appear the subjects had drowned. RFC O'Brien found foot prints along the bank of the creek so it was clear that the subjects had made it out of the water. O'Brien, with the help of a volunteer, was able to pull the partially sunken canoe to the creek bank and secure it along with some belongings of the individuals. Shortly thereafter, the local sheriff's department received a call that the people in the canoe had walked out and made it to a nearby residence. The individuals suffered minor

hypothermia but were doing fine considering the cold water temperature. After interviewing the subjects, they stated their canoe got hung in some limbs and during their attempt to free the vessel they lost balance resulting in "swamping" their canoe. O'Brien assisted the canoe owners back into the woods to the location along the creek where their boat was tied off and helped them load the canoe back on their vehicle.
On March 23rd, RFC Jamey O'Brien patrolled areas of the county for illegal turkey hunting activity. A total of 7 turkey hunters were checked. One citation was issued for hunting without a resident hunting license.
COFFEE COUNTY On March 23rd, Sgt. Damon Winters and RFC Joe Hilton were checking for turkey hunting activity along Hwy 107. They noticed a truck parked out in a clear cut with an ATV trailer hooked to it. While checking the truck they noticed the ATV tracks leading into the woods. They tracked the ATV and found it parked beside some planted pines. They waited and checked the hunter when he came back to the ATV. The hunter had his turkey decoy, turkey calls, and an AK 47 rifle. Hunting with an illegal weapon was documented.

On March 22nd, RFC Tim Hutto was called by Sgt. Damon Winters to assist with locating a possible out of season turkey hunter with K-9 Gauge. While tracking the suspect, the officers came across a cleaned out area in the woods that resembled a recent marijuana grow site. After searching the area thoroughly and finding a small amount of marijuana, the case was turned over to Coffee S.O.
BERRIEN COUNTY On March 23rd, Cpl. Morty Wood patrolled areas baited for turkey and other areas that turkeys inhabited in the West Berrien and Enigma areas. Cpl. Wood checked 5 turkey hunters and found two turkeys harvested legally. One hunter was found to be hunting turkeys over bait and was issued a citation for the offense.
On Saturday March 30, Cpl. Morty Wood checked an area north of Alapaha that was baited for turkey. Cpl. Wood arrested one male subject in the baited area. Charges included hunting without a license, hunting without a big game license, hunting big game over bait, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
On Saturday March 30, Cpl. Morty Wood observed a car parked halfway in a busy highway and halfway in the grass. Cpl. Wood discovered that the vehicle was occupied by two young white males and that the vehicle had a flat front tire. After instructing the occupants to move the vehicle from the roadway and after a brief investigation with county deputies, the two occupants were arrested for possession of marijuana and felony intent to distribute marijuana.
LOWNDES COUNTY On March 23rd, RFC Keith McDonald presented a brief hunting safety program for hunters participating in a disabled turkey hunt. There were approximately thirty hunters and volunteer guides present. Breakfast was donated by the Waffle House and the hunt was organized by Tim Keller.
While patrolling Lowndes County on opening day of turkey season, RFC Keith McDonald encountered an individual hunting turkeys over bait. While checking the individual's hunting license and shotgun, RFC McDonald noticed the gun was capable of holding four shells. A citation was issued for hunting big game over bait and a warning was written for hunting with an unplugged shot gun.
BACON COUNTY On March 23rd, RFC Mark Pool was patrolling an area baited with small grains and corn for turkey hunting activity. While checking the area, RFC Pool made contact with three individual's (two adults and one juvenile) sitting in a ground blind located at the bait site. Violations were documented on the two adults. All were released at the scene.
WARE COUNTY On March 23rd, Corporal Josh Chambers and Ranger Daniel North were patrolling previously documented turkey bait sites in northern Ware County. During this patrol, Corporal Chambers and Ranger North encountered a male and a female hunter in a blind

approximately forty yards from an area baited with scratch feed. The male subject admitted he had put the bait out six days earlier on Sunday afternoon. The officers explained to the subject that all bait must be gone ten days prior to hunting an area. The male subject said he was responsible for the infraction and his female guest had little knowledge of hunting. The male subject was issued a citation for hunting big game over bait while the female subject was issued warnings for hunting big game over bait, nonresident hunting without a non-resident hunting license, and non-resident hunting big game without a non-resident big game license. The subjects were advised that ten days after all the bait was cleaned up they could return to the area to hunt.
LAURENS COUNTY On March 22nd, Cpl. Stiles assisted by RFC Rodney Horne and RFC Allen Mills concluded an investigation of hunting turkeys out of season that began on March 8, 2013. One individual was charged with hunting out of season and possession of illegally taken wildlife. The violator had killed a turkey on March 7, 2013. The turkey beard, spurs, and part of the carcass were confiscated.
On March 23rd, Cpl. Stiles encountered three individuals hunting turkeys. One violation for hunting big game without a big game license was documented.
On March 23, 2013 CPL James McLaughlin and RFC Rodney Horne were patrolling a property in Laurens County checking baited turkey stands. One violation was documented for hunting without a license on person.
On March 24, Cpl. Stiles was patrolling a location where corn had been placed on the ground in the edge of a field prior to opening date of turkey season. Two individuals were located hunting turkeys at the location within 30 yards of the bait. Two violations for hunting big game over bait were documented.
March 30, Cpl. Stiles and Sgt. David Reckley were patrolling Laurens County for turkey hunting violations. Violations for hunting big game (turkeys) over bait were documented on two hunters at different locations. Another violation for hunting without license on person was also documented.
DODGE COUNTY On March 17th, RFC Allen Mills was conducting an area check at Dodge County Public Fishing Area. Three boating safety inspections were performed and five anglers were checked. Three violations were documented for operating a vessel without C.G.A. P.F.D., fishing without a license, and fishing on a PFA without a WMA license.
WILCOX COUNTY On March 23rd, Sgt. David Reckley and Cpl. John Stokes were patrolling Wilcox County. One turkey hunter was encountered hunting turkeys over bait. One violation for hunting big game over bait was documented.

ECHOLS COUNTY On March 24th, Sgt. Patrick Dupree conducted a high visibility patrol at the Statenville public boat ramp on the Alapaha River. Twelve boats and their operators were inspected for boating safety issues. Several boaters were given verbal guidance for safety violations related to personal flotation devices and fire extinguishers. On March 25th, Sgt. Patrick Dupree completed an investigation that began in June 2012 into the unlawful dumping of hundreds of gallons of waste water containing fertilizer components by a local farming operation on private property. After satisfactorily determining, with the help of the landowner, that the discharged liquid was in fact waste water that was initially supposed to have been sprayed on nearby pastures, Sgt. Dupree issued the sprayer truck operator a written warning for unlawful dumping of waste. On March 30th, Sgt. Patrick Dupree was patrolling near Needmore for turkey hunting activity. Two hunters were encountered that were concluding their morning's hunt. One of the hunters did not possess a valid hunting or big game license. The individual was charged for the license violation. On March 30th, Sgt. Patrick Dupree received an anonymous tip that a poacher had shot a wild turkey with a rifle on March 29th in a field south of Statenville near the Florida line. Sgt. Dupree located where the turkey had been killed due to the large number of feathers at the scene. After collecting additional evidence and determining that the feathers were from a hen turkey, Sgt. Dupree located the individual that reportedly shot the turkey. A brief interview resulted in the poacher admitting that he had shot the hen with a 7mm rifle. Citations were issued to the individual for hunting turkey with an illegal weapon and taking totally protected wildlife. A small package of meat from the hen was also seized.
Sgt. Patrick Dupree inspects a handful of feathers from a hen turkey killed by a poacher in Echols County.

APPLING COUNTY On the evening of the 16th, Cpl. Altman was patrolling Lake Mayers for boating safety violations. About an hour after sunset, three boats came in from fishing. One violation of undersize fish was documented, along with two violations of operating vessel w/o lights.
Cpl. Altman conducted an I/E Program at the Wild Game Supper in Baxley on the 23rd, handing out items for the children in attendance and helping with the turkeys being brought in for the Big Turkey Contest.
Region VII- Brunswick (Coastal)
CHATHAM COUNTY On March 24, Corporal Bill Bryson was on routine patrol in Chatham County in the undeveloped Highlands Subdivision when he found wood pallets and a wooden box that had been dumped out in the woods. Cpl. Bryson tracked down the unlawful dumper and a citation was issued.

On March 24, Corporal Bill Bryson was on routine patrol in West Chatham County off John Carter road where he found 39 white bags of house hold trash that had been dumped in the woods. Upon further investigation the dumper was tracked down and a citation was issued for unlawful dumping.
On March 26, Corporal Bill Bryson was called by the Chatham County Sherriff's Office, who was serving an eviction notice in Savannah. The Sheriff Office stated that there were snakes, reptiles, and an alligator in the individual's house. The alligator was confiscated and a citation was issued for having an alligator without a permit. Other charges are pending. BRANTLEY COUNTY On March 23rd, RFC John Evans and Ranger Jay Bright responded to a hunting without permission complaint near Nahunta. The landowner had already made contact with the suspect. The violator had seen a gobbler in the field while riding by and got a friend to drop him out down the road. The suspect walked back, set up on the field and killed the turkey without permission. He was cited for Hunting without Permission, Hunting Without a License, and Hunting Big Game without a Big Game license. On Sunday, March 24th, RFC John Evans received a complaint of a subject hunting without permission in Brantley County. RFC Evans and RFC David Brady responded to the area and made contact with the suspect. He had observed the birds in the field while driving by and parked and walked back through the woods to the edge of the field where he killed one gobbler. He hid the bird, gun, and his camouflage clothing before coming

out of the woods. RFC Evans talked with the suspect and he admitted to killing the turkey. RFC Brady went with the suspect to recover the bird and equipment. The suspect was cited for hunting without permission.
On March 25th, RFC John Evans was notified about someone killing a hen turkey. RFC Evans made contact with suspect who had also killed a gobbler. He was cited for possession of illegally taken wildlife and the hen was confiscated.
CAMDEN COUNTY On March 22nd, Cpl. Craig Smith and Cpl. Chris Ridley were working a detail for early Turkey hunting and Hunting without Permission. Early in the morning, Cpl. Craig Smith heard a shot and saw a subject run onto the road and retrieve a dead Turkey. Cpl. Smith was able to get to the area and after a short foot chase, catch the subject with the turkey and a shotgun. The subject was arrested and transported to the Camden County Jail and cited for Hunting out of season, Hunting without Permission, and Hunting with an unplugged Shotgun.
On March 23rd, Cpl. Craig Smith checked a subject that was Turkey hunting in west Camden. He was found not to have a license or plug in his gun. He was cited for Non Resident hunting without a license, Non Resident Hunting without a Big Game License, and Hunting with an unplugged shotgun.
On the morning of March 23rd, Sgt. Chris Hodge received a complaint of a subject hunting turkeys over bait in Kingsland. Upon arrival, Sgt. Hodge left his truck on foot and later located a subject on the property. The hunter had spread cracked corn on a road and was setup near the bait calling for turkeys. The hunter was cited for Hunting Big Game Over Bait.
On March 24, RFC David Brady received a call regarding 11 kayakers that were unable to get back to Crooked River State Park due to the strong winds and tides. RFC Brady responded and launched a patrol vessel, and after a short search was able to locate the stranded boaters. All 11 individuals and 6 vessels were returned safely to Crooked River State Park.
On March 24th, Sgt. Chris Hodge and RFC David Brady worked a complaint in reference to someone possibly hunting turkey without permission. Officers heard a shot early in the morning which turned out to be on another property. Sgt. Hodge later located two subjects from Florida who had killed a turkey on property they had permission to hunt on. One subject was found to not have license to hunt turkey in Georgia and was cited for Hunting without a License and Hunting without a Big Game License.

BRYAN COUNTY On Sunday March 17th, Ranger Jason Miller was on patrol in south Bryan County. Ranger Miller cited two subjects for "fishing w/o license" and "fishing w/o permission" at the Bryan County Fishermen's Co-op.
On the night of March 23rd, Ranger Trey Taylor assisted Chatham County Body Recovery with removal of a body from the Ogeechee River at Kings Ferry boat ramp. Ranger Taylor was assisting the county with the removal of a vehicle that was discovered in the water at the end of the boat ramp when the body was discovered. This incident is still under investigation.
On March 30, Ranger First Class Jack Thain and Ranger Trey Taylor conducted Joint Enforcement Agreement Patrol in St. Catherine's Sound and checked one vessel that had been to the Triple Ledge and caught 2 Black Fin Tuna and 1 Wahoo.
On 23 March, 2013 Cpl. Scott and Sgt. Shelton investigated a complaint of unlawful dumping in a rural area on private property. The person responsible for the trash was located out of town and agreed to have the area cleaned up. This case is still under investigation.
LIBERTY COUNTY Ranger Trey Taylor and RFC Jack Thain were on patrol in south Liberty County on the opening day of turkey season. The Rangers cited two subjects for "Hunting w/o permission", "Hunting with an unplugged shotgun", and "Hunting w/o Big Game license".
On 29 March 2013 Ranger First Class Jack Thain and Ranger Trey Taylor conducted Salt Water Patrol in the areas of Medway River and Liberty CO Costal area creeks and conducted Commercial Bait Facility inspections.
GLYNN COUNTY On March 21, Ranger Kiel Toney, Cpl.'s Bill Bryson, Jimmy Finn, Bobby White, Craig Smith, and Sgt. Cindy Miller were called to assist the Brunswick Police Department in searching for two murder suspects accused of killing a thirteen month old baby. These Rangers responded from throughout the coast and assisted in the manhunt. The two suspects were eventually apprehended the next day.
WAYNE COUNTY On March 21, 2013 RFC Randy Aspinwall went to Fort Stewart to receive a Merit Award for his work with a Wounded Warrior Event he organized. Six Wounded Warriors from Fort Stewart were taken on a weekend of hunting in which 90 pheasants and 7 hogs were killed. This event was held at no cost to the Warriors.

On March 23, 2013 RFC Randy Aspinwall checked an area baited for turkeys. It was an area that had been baited for 3 years. Prior to the 2012 season Aspinwall found where a gobbler had been killed. Aspinwall had retrieved the spent shotgun hull from the kill. Aspinwall found a subject calling turkeys from this same site. The subject did not have a big game license, was hunting with an unplugged shotgun, and was hunting over cracked corn. In addition the subject admitted to killing the Gobbler the prior to the previous season. Citations were written for hunting turkeys out of season from 2012, hunting big game over bait, hunting without a big game license, and hunting with an unplugged gun.
On March 23, 2013 Ranger Kate Hargrove, RFC Randy Aspinwall, Corp. Bobby White, Sgt. Wayne Hubbard, Capt. Doug Lewis and Commissioner Mark Williams attended an event at the Unity Church of God in Jesup, GA. The event featured Duck Dynasty personality Alan Robertson. Rangers provided the Lazer Shot and Fishing Simulator for the event.

On March 31st Cpl Bobby White received a call from the 911 center saying there was a boat sinking on the Altamaha River approximately 10 to 12 miles downriver from JC landing in Jesup. When Cpl White arrived, he found 4 adults and one 3 year old on the bank with about 3 foot of the bow of the boat sticking out of the water. The five stranded boaters were taken back to the landing safety with no injuries.