Travis Vacek, a 34-year-old Sioux Falls man, has been brought to justice for his involvement in a shocking incident of wildlife crime. On November 24, 2012, Vacek, along with a group of friends known as ‘Team Those Guys,’ went on a hunting trip in Miner County, South Dakota. But what should have been a day of fair hunting turned into a crime spree.
According to reports, Vacek and his friends hunted geese using an electronic device, which is illegal during certain times of the year. The group ended up killing 18 geese, but their actions didn’t stop there. They proceeded to transport the geese from the field to various locations, violating federal law.
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service took notice of the illicit activities and launched an investigation. The probe led to Vacek’s arrest and subsequent prosecution. On July 15, 2013, U.S. Magistrate Judge John E. Simko sentenced Vacek to 1 year of probation, a $200 fine, a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and $1,350 in restitution. To make matters worse for Vacek, his hunting privileges were revoked for 1 year.
Vacek’s guilty plea to the Amended Information charged with Unlawful Taking of Migratory Birds and Lacey Act Violations marked the beginning of the end for the group’s illicit activities. The charges were brought forth by U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson, who announced the guilty plea and subsequent sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges led the prosecution, ensuring that Vacek faced the consequences of his actions. The case serves as a reminder that wildlife crimes will not be taken lightly, and those who break the law will be held accountable.
The incident highlights the importance of upholding laws that protect our nation’s wildlife. The Lacey Act, in particular, plays a crucial role in safeguarding the environment and preventing the exploitation of our natural resources.
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Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Category: Wildlife Crime|Hunting Violation|Migratory Birds
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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