Three people were charged this month in Broadwater County courts following an almost year-long investigation by game wardens into several animals killed in 2023.

The investigation began with a tip to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks from a concerned citizen. During the investigation, FWP game wardens uncovered evidence indicating three elk and three deer were killed unlawfully on public and private land in Broadwater County. This led to three people facing a mix of felony and misdemeanor charges.

All three individuals have made initial appearances in court and pleaded not guilty to the charges. Every person accused of a crime is presumed to be innocent until and until his or her guilt is established beyond a reasonable doubt.

Montana Highway Patrol, the Broadwater County Sheriff’s Office, and the Lewis & Clark County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation.

No further details about the investigation are available at this time.

Montana game wardens rely heavily on tips from the public. Anyone with information about crimes against wildlife or state lands is encouraged to visit tipmont.mt.gov to provide details. You may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.