Christopher Brackett, Poaching Deer, Illinois 2013

Former Host of Cable Hunting Show Pleads Guilty to Poaching Deer

PEORIA, Ill. – Christopher Brackett, 41, of East Peoria, Ill., a former host of a hunting show that aired on the Outdoor Channel, pleaded guilty today in federal court to unlawful transportation of wildlife, in violation of the Lacey Act.

The crime occurred in December 2013, during filming of an episode of Brackett's cable show, 'Fear No Evil.' Brackett admitted to killing two bucks, within minutes of each other, but the state of Indiana only permitted hunters to kill one buck per season.

Brackett further admitted that he transported the second, 11-point buck he had nicknamed the 'Unicorn Buck,' for its unique antler formation, to his home in East Peoria. The 'Unicorn Buck' kill was featured on his television show in 2014.

Brackett also admitted to instructing his cameraman and producer to hide footage of the kill of the first, smaller eight-point buck. Additionally, in 2017, prior to charges being filed against him, he instructed an employee to destroy an eight-point rack.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Legge in the prosecution, with the assistance of Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiann Cerese from the Environmental Crimes Section. The charges were investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service with the assistance of both the Illinois and Indiana Departments of Natural Resources.

At sentencing, scheduled on November 5, 2019, before U.S. District Judge Michael M. Mihm, Brackett has agreed to a sentence of 30 months of probation with the condition that during the 30-month period, he is banned from hunting worldwide. Brackett has also agreed to pay $3,500 in restitution to the State of Indiana and to pay a $26,500 fine.

Brackett's case serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to hunting regulations and respecting the law. The consequences of his actions will have a lasting impact on his life, serving as a warning to others who may be tempted to break the law.

Brackett's plea agreement demonstrates the effectiveness of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and its partners in investigating and prosecuting wildlife crimes. The case highlights the need for continued cooperation and collaboration between law enforcement agencies to protect our natural resources.

The details of Brackett's case are a stark reminder of the consequences of wildlife poaching. The public has a right to know about the actions of those who break the law and harm our environment. By sharing this story, we hope to educate and inform the public about the importance of wildlife conservation and the need for responsible hunting practices.

This case is a prime example of the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions. Brackett's sentence serves as a warning to others who may be tempted to break the law and highlights the need for continued vigilance in protecting our natural resources.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-cdil/pr/former-host-cable-hunting-show-pleads-guilty-poaching-deer