Across Pennsylvania, wildlife is under siege by poachers who kill animals indiscriminately, ignoring laws, seasons, and ethical hunting practices. In Washington County, three men were recently convicted of killing 21 deer in a two-night spree¹. Using spotlights and rifles, they targeted deer at night from their vehicle—an act that violates hunting ethics and state laws. This “thrill-kill” left the deer scattered in fields, carcasses abandoned, and not a single ounce of meat harvested².

This incident, one of Pennsylvania’s largest poaching cases, is part of a disturbing trend. It highlights a broader issue: poachers are acting with increasing disregard for wildlife, wasting animal lives, and undermining conservation efforts³. Despite the seriousness of this case, limited resources mean state game wardens often struggle to adequately monitor and enforce wildlife laws. Without more support, these incidents will continue, robbing Pennsylvanians of the natural beauty that makes our state unique.

Why This Matters

Poaching is not only illegal but deeply damaging to ecosystems and communities. When poachers act without restraint, they leave animals to waste, damage ecosystems, and harm our shared environment. They ignore the sustainability-focused practices that ethical hunters follow and the efforts of conservationists who work tirelessly to protect wildlife. Pennsylvania’s deer, a vital part of our ecosystem, help maintain balanced forests and offer a renewable resource for responsible hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. When poaching goes unchecked, these natural balances break down, and our communities suffer from the loss of these animals.

We Need Stronger Protections

In response to the Washington County case, the Pennsylvania Game Commission confiscated the poachers’ hunting licenses for life, a rare and severe punishment aimed at deterring future wildlife crimes⁴. Yet these penalties alone cannot prevent poaching when it remains difficult to monitor rural and forested areas. Pennsylvania needs additional funding for game wardens, surveillance, and investigative resources to better identify and stop poachers before they can act.

We are calling on the Pennsylvania Game Commission to invest more resources in anti-poaching efforts. By doing so, they will strengthen their ability to protect our wildlife and create a safer future for Pennsylvania’s natural heritage. Increased surveillance and education will help prevent future cases, empower the community to report poaching incidents, and show that Pennsylvania stands firm in its dedication to conservation.

Join Us in Taking a Stand

We believe that Pennsylvania’s wildlife deserves more than neglect in the face of poaching threats. With enough support, we can demand the Game Commission intensify its efforts and resources, ensuring a safer, more sustainable Pennsylvania for generations to come.

Sign the petition today to protect our wildlife and keep our forests thriving. Together, we can stop poachers, defend ethical hunting, and preserve the natural beauty of Pennsylvania’s wilderness.

More on this issue:

1. Mary Ann Thomas, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (25 October 2024), "Three Men Sentenced for Poaching 21 Deer in Washington County."
2. Madeline Bartos, CBS Pittsburgh (23 October 2024), "Three Washington County Men Jailed for Poaching Deer."
3. Brian Whipkey, GoErie (8 August 2024), "PA Game Commission Reports High-Profile Poaching Case."
4. WJAC (23 October 2024), "Washington County Men Sentenced in Poaching Case."