Three Jennings men cited in killing of Thistlethwaite WMA spotted fawn

Young deer was killed, hidden behind truck seat, LDWF says.

Three Jennings men were cited in connection with the killing a spotted fawn during a Nov. 23 hunting trip to Thistlethwaite Wildlife Management Area, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries said.

Agents cited 22-year-old Samuel T. Herndon for taking a spotted fawn, intentional concealment of wildlife and failing to comply with deer tagging or harvest card requirements, the LDWF said.

Agents also cited 22-year-old Nicholas J. Demary and 23-year-old Michael J. Comeaux for intentional concealment of wildlife, the agency said.

After the three men made a morning hunt on Thistlethwaite WMA, agents allegedly found them in possession of a freshly killed spotted fawn hidden behind the seat of their truck. During the investigation, agents allegedly learned that Herndon shot the fawn and that all three conspired to hide the deer behind the seat to sneak it out of the WMA.

Agents seized a 12-gauge shotgun and the spotted fawn, which was donated to charity.

Intentional concealment of wildlife carries a $900 to $950 fine and up to 120 days in jail.  Taking a spotted fawn brings up to a $750 fine and up to 30 days in jail. Failing to comply with deer tagging and harvest card requirements carries a $100 to $350 fine and up to 60 days in jail.

Agents also assessed Herndon with $1,624.61 in restitution for the replacement value of the deer.