Colorado authorities ask for help in arresting a poacher in Lake Pueblo Park

Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials are asking the public for help in identifying the person who illegally shot a big-eared deer in Lake Pueblo State Park last week.

If an arrest or summons occurs, a reward of up to $500 is possible.

Game wardens discovered the dead fawn Thursday near Rock Creek Canyon Road, adjacent to Kestrel Pond Swim Beach. According to a news release, evidence found at the scene indicated the fawn had been poached and no meat had been stolen or could be salvaged.

“We need the public's help,” said Gretchen Holschuh, county wildlife manager for the Pueblo West region. “This is poaching and it's illegal, and we want to catch the person who did this. This big-eared deer was treated unethically, and we take that very seriously.”

Consequences of poaching can include fines and prison sentences

Holschuh said anyone who illegally injures or kills wildlife could be charged with a misdemeanor, including wildlife harassment, hunting big game without a permit, illegal taking of wildlife and negligent use of a firearm, to name a few. Convictions could result in fines and surcharges ranging from $750 to $13,000 and up to six months in jail, depending on the charge, she said.