Astoria, OR – Oregon State Police (OSP) Fish and Wildlife Division (F&W) successfully concluded a months-long investigation into illegal poaching practices involving advanced infrared technology, leading to the arrest of 13 individuals in Clackamas County. On December 15 and 16, 2024, OSP F&W troopers executed search warrants at nine residences, seizing 14 infrared thermal imaging devices, one rifle, and four deer. The operation was part of an ongoing crackdown on the unlawful use of Forward-Looking Infrared (FLIR) technology to hunt and scout for big game animals like deer and elk.
Infrared and thermal devices, which enable users to detect heat signatures of animals even in total darkness or dense cover, are prohibited for hunting in Oregon due to their unfair advantage. This technology, often used to spot wildlife that would normally be concealed by their environment, undermines an animal’s ability to hide, essentially eliminating the natural challenge of the hunt.
According to Captain Kyle Kennedy of OSP, this case underscores the Fish and Wildlife Division’s commitment to combating modern poaching techniques. “This case highlights the Fish and Wildlife Division’s ability to adapt to modern poaching threats and effectively investigate and seek criminal prosecution of poachers,” Kennedy stated.
The investigation was launched in response to a growing number of complaints about the illegal use of FLIR technology, particularly in Clackamas County. Over the past two years, OSP F&W had received multiple reports of individuals using infrared devices to locate and kill wildlife. The department’s success in dismantling this poaching operation is a direct result of their ongoing efforts to stay ahead of evolving hunting technologies.
In addition to the seizures, three individuals were cited and released in the field during the investigation, with two additional FLIR devices confiscated. All 13 individuals arrested are facing criminal wildlife charges, which will be processed through the Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office. As the investigation remains active, further arrests and charges are expected.
The unlawful use of FLIR devices poses a significant threat to wildlife populations, according to Jason Kirchner, a wildlife biologist with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW). “Thermal or infrared use is illegal in Oregon, gives an unfair advantage, and is not a fair chase,” Kirchner said. “This illegal activity will increase harvest rates, reduce our game populations and hunting opportunities, and impact the public image of law-abiding hunters.”
The Oregon Hunters Association (OHA), a statewide group dedicated to protecting the state’s natural resources, has expressed strong support for the enforcement of laws against high-tech poaching. OHA President Steve Hagan emphasized the importance of ensuring that all hunters play by the same rules. “OHA supports the vigorous enforcement of laws designed to protect wildlife, habitat, private property, and hunter’s rights,” Hagan remarked.
Hunting regulations are designed not only to maintain fair chase standards but also to ensure the conservation of wildlife for future generations. Bernadette Graham-Hudson, ODFW’s Wildlife Division Administrator, echoed this sentiment, stressing that unlawful practices like FLIR-enabled poaching undermine legitimate hunters’ efforts and the public’s opportunity to experience Oregon’s wildlife.
As the investigation continues, OSP urges the public to report any suspicious activity related to wildlife poaching or habitat destruction. Tips can be reported anonymously through OSP dispatch, with rewards potentially available for information leading to an arrest or citation.
The recent operation highlights Oregon’s ongoing commitment to protecting its wildlife and ensuring that hunting remains a fair and ethical practice for all involved.
