Kevan Hueftle, a 35-year-old resident of Eustis, Nebraska, has been sentenced to three years’ probation for violating the Lacey Act. The Lacey Act prohibits the trafficking in interstate commerce of wildlife, fish, or indigenous plants that are taken in violation of a law or regulation.
According to the investigation, Hueftle provided guiding and outfitting services to a New York resident on property located west of Eustis in Frontier County, Nebraska. Hueftle previously identified a target white-tailed deer named ‘Holyfield’ using electronic game cameras and helped the client hunt the deer from locations within baited areas. Nebraska law prohibits hunting or taking deer within a baited area.
Hueftle also assisted the client in transporting the deer from the field, arranging for a taxidermy mount, and coordinating the shipment of the mount to the client’s New York residence. The client later killed the target deer with a rifle, despite knowing that Nebraska law prohibits hunting deer with a rifle under the authority of an archery permit.
The sentencing hearing is part of the ongoing prosecution of numerous defendants related to violations committed by owners, guides, and clients of Hidden Hills Outfitters. To date, 34 defendants have pleaded guilty and been sentenced, ordered to pay a total of $595,202 in fines and restitution. The operation was a joint investigation conducted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Law Enforcement Division.
Hueftle was sentenced by United States Magistrate Judge Michael D. Nelson to three years’ probation, ordered to pay $10,000 in restitution, and a $5,000 fine. As part of his probation terms, Hueftle is not allowed to hunt, trap, guide, outfit, or otherwise assist or be present in the field with anyone engaging in those activities.
Hueftle’s case is one of several ongoing prosecutions related to wildlife crimes committed by Hidden Hills Outfitters. The investigation highlighted the importance of enforcing laws and regulations related to wildlife trafficking and hunting practices.
Nebraska residents and visitors are reminded to familiarize themselves with state laws and regulations regarding hunting and wildlife practices to avoid similar consequences.
The sentencing of Kevan Hueftle serves as a reminder of the severity of wildlife crimes and the importance of responsible wildlife management practices.
Defendant: Kevan Hueftle
Criminal Charge: Violating the Lacey Act
City and State: Eustis, Nebraska
Date: November 11, 2016 (crime date)
Sentence: Three years’ probation, $10,000 restitution, $5,000 fine
Dollar Amount: $10,000 restitution, $5,000 fine
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Key Facts
- State: Nebraska
- Category: Wildlife Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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