Robeline man cited for deer hunting violations in Natchitoches Parish

Suspect admitted to shooting an 8-point on Sept. 14, LDWF says

A 20-year-old man was ticketed for multiple deer violations on Saturday for shooting an 8-point buck northwest of Robeline in Natchitoches Parish, according to a press release from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

Enforcement agents cited Justin S. Matthews of Robeline for taking deer during a closed season, possession of an illegally taken deer, hunting without resident and big game licenses, fail to possess deer tags and failing to comply with deer tagging requirements.

Acting on a tip about the 8-point, agents contacted Matthews on Sept. 15, and he admitted to shooting the deer the evening before about 6:30 with a Marlin .30-30, the release states.

Agents seized the deer meat, antlers, rifle and scope, according to the release.

Taking a deer during a closed season brings a $900 to $950 fine and up to 120 days in jail.  Possession of an illegally taken deer carries a $400 to $950 fine and up to 120 days in jail.  Failing to possess deer tags and complying with deer tagging requirements each brings a $100 to $350 fine and up to 30 days in jail.  Hunting without a basic hunting and big game license each carries up to a $50 fine and 15 days in jail, the release states.

Matthews may also face civil restitution totaling $2,033 for the replacement value of the illegally taken buck, according to the release.