PRATT, Kan. (KAKE) - Nine people have been charged following a three-year investigation by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. 

The investigation, which spanned Cheyenne, Sherman, Wallace and Logan counties involved 25 deer, one antelope, eight turkeys and other wildlife that had been taken illegally, KTKA reports. Physical and electronic search warrants along with several interviews led to the discovery of the poached animals. 

A total of 140 charges were filed for nine people in connection to violations between 2015 and 2019. Three of those charged received more than four charges. 

  • Tayton Weeter: 58 charges relating to the illegal take of wildlife. Weeter pleaded guilty to 22 charges, was ordered to pay $45,000 in fines and restitution, and received a 10-year hunting revocation.
  • Tracy Weeter: 46 charges relating to the illegal take of wildlife. Weeter pleaded guilty to 12 charges, was ordered to pay $750 in fines and $1,688 in court costs, and received a two-year hunting revocation.
  • Sean Winter: 18 charges relating to the illegal take of wildlife. Winter pleaded guilty to six charges, was ordered to pay $5,800 in fines and restitution, and received a 12-month hunting revocation.

Many of the deer were shown to have been shot out of season and with firearms by people with archery permits only. Some were also taken without permits.