Incidents occurred off the Red River; 12 gator heads discovered, LDWF says
Two Colfax men were cited for alligator hunting violations in Grant Parish on Aug. 18, according to a news release from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
Samuel Daniels, 38, and Patrick Daniels, 43, both of Colfax, were cited for taking alligators during a closed season and taking alligators without a license, the release states. Agents also are still seeking a third suspect believed to be involved in the case.
Acting on a tip, agents discovered 12 alligator heads and carcasses — as well as a large amount of gator meat in two freezers — at the subjects’ residence, the release states.
During an interview, the release states that both men admitted to harvesting alligators in an oxbow off the Red River on Aug. 14 and 15. They snagged the gators using rods and reels outfitted with treble hooks, the release states.
Taking alligators during a closed season carries a $400 to $950 fine and up to 120 days in jail, while taking alligators without a license brings a $250 to $500 fine and up to 90 days in jail, according to the release.
The men could also face civil restitution charges totaling $4,509.60 for the illegally taken gators, the release states.