Related Federal Cases
- Felon Gets 2+ Years for Illegal Gun · South Dakota
- Miles Condon Indicted in Dupree Assault Spree · South Dakota
- Waubay Man Charged in Cover-Up of Fatal Assault · South Dakota
- Matthew Long Crow Charged in Knife Kidnapping, Assault · South Dakota
- Desarae Makes Him First Charged in Child’s Brutal Killing · South Dakota
Crime Pays the Price
A Spencer, South Dakota, man has been held accountable for his heinous crime. Dennis L. Rowley, 63, was sentenced to 3 years of probation for the unlawful taking of 61 Double-crested Cormorants in June 2012.
According to the investigation, a person taking photographs of the cormorants nesting on an island on a lake near Spencer reported a shooter to the South Dakota T.I.P.S. Hotline. Conservation officers from the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department were alerted and found 61 dead cormorants on the island, all attributed to Rowley.
The case was a collaborative effort between the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case in federal court.
On January 27, 2014, Rowley was found guilty of Unlawful Taking of Wildlife at a trial before U.S. Magistrate Judge John E. Simko. His conviction led to a harsh sentence: 3 years of probation, a $3,000 fine, $3,050 in restitution, and the loss of hunting privileges for 3 years.
The sentence sends a clear message: wildlife crimes will not be tolerated. The Grimy Times commends the efforts of the investigators and prosecutors who worked tirelessly to bring Rowley to justice.
As the case comes to a close, the community can rest easier knowing that the perpetrator has been held accountable for his actions. The Grimy Times will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
For those who would commit similar crimes, be warned: the Grimy Times will be watching, and the law will be waiting.
Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
