Three Montana teens face 33 poaching charges after illegal elk and deer hunts during closed seasons.

Three men from Big Horn County, Montana, face 33 poaching charges—10 felonies and 23 misdemeanors—after a joint investigation by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and federal agencies uncovered illegal elk and deer kills in the Sarpy Creek area during closed seasons. The probe began after a headless elk carcass was found in a restricted zone, leading to search warrants, seized mounts, and voluntary surrenders. The suspects, all minors at the time, are accused of hunting without licenses, landowner permission, or during prohibited periods. Montana authorities urge the public to report wildlife crimes via tipmont.mt.gov, offering rewards up to $1,000.