Sisters man cited for poaching

Cecil Smith of Sisters was cited by the Oregon State Police for three game violations while hunting antelope last August.

According to the OSP office in Bend, Smith was cited for shooting from within 50 yards of a vehicle while hunting antelope, exceeding the bag limit of antelope and failing to immediately validate his hunting tag.

According to the OSP, Smith shot a small antelope on August 18, the opening day of Antelope season, and then went out and shot a bigger one the next day.

The alleged poaching occurred northeast of Madras in the Ashwood/Antelope area.

OSP was alerted to the possible violations on Monday, August 20 and contacted Smith at his home in Sisters. The citations were issued following an interview with Smith.

The three violations were charged as Class "A" misdemeanors which can carry a maximum $5,000 fine and/or one year in jail on each count, though such penalties are rare in these types of citations, according to the OSP.

Numerous warnings were issued. The antelope were seized, including the heads. The rifle used, a Ruger .300 Magnum with scope, was also taken by the OSP.

An OSP officer said a phone tip led to the citation. The Oregon State Police and ODFW have a TIP (Turn In Poachers) line, 1-800- 452-7888, for wildlife violations.

OSP has six game officers in the field in Central Oregon, stationed in Bend, Prineville and Madras.