#502 Wildlife Crimes Uncovered: Road Hunting to Lifetime Ban, Six‑Year Poaching Pattern Exposed

In this episode of Tennessee WildCast, host Jason Harmon and co-host Barry Cross sit down with three TWRA game wardens to unpack a major wildlife case that recently came to a close—one that highlights both the hard work of Tennessee’s officers and the importance of protecting the state’s natural resources. Officers Hunter Daniels (Wilson County), Colt Elrod (DeKalb County), and Jacob Peach (Smith County) share how the investigation unfolded over several years, beginning with tips from alert citizens and growing into a multi‑county effort involving interviews, warrants, and the eventual seizure of illegally taken wildlife.

The officers walk listeners through the timeline, the violations, and the mounting evidence that revealed a long-running pattern of illegal road hunting, trophy possession, and misuse of Tennessee’s wildlife. They also break down the penalties issued—including a lifetime revocation of hunting privileges—and explain why such consequences matter for both conservation and fairness among sportsmen and women.

Along the way, the conversation covers the realities of fieldwork, the value of public cooperation, and how tools like HuntRegs.com help Tennesseans report violations quickly and anonymously. The officers also share reflections on their roles, the communities they serve, and what responsible hunting means for future generations across the Volunteer State.

Tune in for an eye‑opening look at TWRA’s work on the ground, why ethical hunting matters, and what happens when game laws are ignored. Stay connected at TNWildlife.org.