WARNING: Descriptions of injury to animals may be disturbing to some readers. Discretion is advised.

(LAS ANIMAS COUNTY, Colo.) — Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is offering a $1,000 reward for tips leading to legal action against whoever is responsible for illegally poaching and abandoning the carcasses of four large bull elk on four separate ranches in Las Animas County in September.

According to CPW, the elk were illegally shot Sept. 13, 26 and 27 near the communities of Stonewall and Picketwire in Las Animas County. Of the four bull elk illegally poached, one was shot and abandoned whole; one was wounded and had to be put down; another was shot with the backstraps removed; the fourth had its head removed with no meat taken. 

“These were senseless and disgraceful acts which demonstrates a complete disregard for Colorado wildlife,” said Jim Hawkins, CPW Assistant Chief of Law Enforcement and Operation Game Thief Coordinator. 

Investigators would like to speak with anyone who may have information about these crimes. To remain anonymous, you can provide tips to Operation Game Thief at 1-877-265-6648 or by email to [email protected].

A $1,000 reward is being offered for tips that lead to a citation or an arrest. Anyone willing to testify about information they provided which led to the filing of charges would be eligible for a preference point or hunting license, CPW said.

“Poaching is a serious, costly crime which harms legitimate sportspersons, wildlife viewers, small business owners and taxpayers,” CPW said. “If convicted, a person charged with poaching violations could face heavy fines and suspension of hunting and fishing licenses.”