The Maryland Natural Resources Police conducted a saturation patrol for illegal hunting activity in southern Garrett County on Monday night that resulted in five individuals being charged with multiple hunting violations.
On October 2 at 9 p.m., NRP heard shots fired on Red Oak Road and moments later observed a vehicle driving and shining its light in a field located along the road. NRP stopped the vehicle and found it to be operated by Charles Leo Sisler, 24, of Oakland. Two juveniles, brothers ages 16 and 14, of Oakland were passengers in the vehicle. NRP found and seized as evidence a Remington bolt-action .243 caliber rifle, ammunition, empty ammunition casings and three knives from the vehicle.
Sisler was charged with casting the rays of an artificial light upon the fields and woodlands; hunting deer at night; hunting deer in closed season; possession of a loaded weapon in a vehicle; and hunting from a vehicle. The brothers were referred to the Department of Juvenile Services.
In a separate incident, at 10:40 p.m. NRP observed a vehicle shining lights in a field along Kempton Road. NRP stopped the vehicle operated by James Brian Reckart, 23, and passenger, Jason Wayne Winker, 27, both of Oakland. NRP found and seized as evidence a crossbow with a laser dot scope, bolts and two spotlights from the vehicle.
Reckart was charged with casting the rays of an artificial light upon the fields and woodlands; hunting deer at night; hunting from a vehicle; and consuming alcoholic beverage in passenger area of motor vehicle on highway. Winker was charged with casting the rays of an artificial light upon the fields and woodlands; hunting deer at night; and hunting from a vehicle.
The Maryland Natural Resources Police remind people that hunting at night is not only illegal, it is also unsafe. In addition, NRP encourage citizens to report illegal hunting activities by calling the Catch-a-Poacher 24-Hour Hotline at 1-800-635-6124. The anonymity of the caller is guaranteed.