The Oregon State Police has concluded a months-long investigation into poaching involving thermal devices, the department announced Dec. 23.
Troopers served several search warrants and made multiple arrests during the investigation, with more expected, OSP said in a news release.
The use of infrared or thermal devices to hunt, locate, or scout wildlife provides a person with a significant unfair, unethical advantage over other unethical hunting behaviors as it completely voids the animal’s natural ability to hide or conceal itself, the department said. Use of thermal and infrared devices is prohibited by law.
“Over the last two years, the Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division has received an increasing number of complaints regarding the unlawful use of infrared thermal imaging devices, commonly known as Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR), to hunt or scout for big game animals,” the department said. Several complaints originated in the Clackamas County area.
In the fall of 2024, Fish and Wildlife Troopers began investigating several individuals who were reportedly using infrared technology to kill deer and elk. Some of the suspects shared a connection, while some were working individually.
On Dec. 15 and 16, OSP Fish and Wildlife Division personnel executed search warrants at nine residences in Clackamas County. The investigation resulted in the seizure of 14 infrared thermal imaging devices, four deer, and one rifle, allegedly related to the use of FLIR devices for scouting and hunting wildlife.
Criminal wildlife charges will be forwarded to the Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office on 13 individuals for the use of infrared thermal imaging while scouting or hunting big game animals, the OSP said. In connection to this investigation, the Oregon State Police contacted three individuals while in the field hunting or scouting for wildlife. They were criminally cited and released. In those cases, two infrared thermal imaging devices were seized.
“This case highlights the Fish and Wildlife Division’s ability to adapt to modern poaching threats and effectively investigate and seek criminal prosecution of poachers,” said OSP Capt. Kyle Kennedy.
Due to the on-going status of these cases, no further information is available for release, the department said.
Those with information regarding a wildlife and/or habitat law violations or suspicious activity can call OSP dispatch directly at *OSP (*677) or 1-800-442-0776. Callers can remain anonymous and a cash reward or preference point reward may be offered for information leading to a citation or arrest in a qualifying case.
TIP qualifying cases can include: Unlawful Take/Possession or Waste, Habitat Destruction, Illegally Obtaining Hunting/Angling License(s) or Tag(s), Lending/Borrowing Big Game Tag(s), Spotlighting (Including Thermal/IR, Night Vision Optics), and Snagging/Attempting to Snag Game Fish.