Mark Evan Buchanan, 47, of Wise, Va., has been sentenced to two years of probation for illegally removing Ginseng plants from the National Forest. The sentence, handed down in the United States District Court, comes after Buchanan pled guilty to one count of attempting to transport, sell, receive or acquire plants in interstate commerce knowing that said plants were taken in an unlawful manner.
According to evidence presented in court by Special Assistant United States Attorney Kathleen Carnell, Buchanan possessed 246 wild Ginseng roots from the George Washington and Jefferson National Forrest, knowing that it was illegal to take, possess, acquire and transport wild Ginseng from the National Forest. Buchanan intended to sell the Ginseng roots, highlighting the lucrative nature of the black market for endangered species.
The investigation of the case was conducted by Special Agent James Willett of the U.S. Forest Service. Assistant United States Attorney Special Assistant United States Attorney Kathleen Carnell prosecuted the case for the United States. The sentence serves as a warning to those who would seek to exploit national resources for personal gain.
The crime of Ginseng theft is a serious one, with the plant being highly valued for its medicinal properties. The illegal removal of Ginseng from national forests not only harms the environment but also undermines the efforts of law enforcement to protect these areas. Buchanan’s actions were a clear violation of the law, and his sentence reflects the seriousness of the offense.
In addition to his sentence, Buchanan was ordered to pay $3,690 in restitution. This amount reflects the value of the Ginseng roots that he illegally removed from the national forest. The restitution order serves as a further deterrent to those who would engage in similar activities, highlighting the financial consequences of such actions.
The case against Buchanan is a reminder of the importance of protecting national resources and the role that law enforcement plays in this effort. The U.S. Forest Service and the Department of Justice are committed to combating wildlife crime and preserving the natural beauty of our national forests. As such, they will continue to investigate and prosecute those who seek to exploit these areas for personal gain.
In conclusion, the sentencing of Mark Evan Buchanan serves as a warning to those who would engage in the illegal removal of Ginseng from national forests. The sentence and restitution order reflect the seriousness of the offense and the commitment of law enforcement to protecting national resources. As the fight against wildlife crime continues, it is clear that those who seek to exploit these areas will be held accountable for their actions.
RELATED: Wise Man Digs Himself a Hole: Ginseng Thief Pleads Guilty
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Key Facts
- State: Virginia
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Public Corruption
- Source: Official Source ↗
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