Wayne and Jennie Dion were arrested last week for running an elaborate deer poaching operation from their home in Irasburg, according to a press release from the Vermont Department of Fish & Wildlife.
The couple is accused of deer baiting and illegal night hunting.
Game wardens obtained a search warrant and found 91 deer antler plaques and 15 shoulder mounts in the Dions’ home.
The wardens also discovered a backyard cedar hedge enclosure with a large pile of corn and apples, deer trails leading into the yard and a shooting range gun-rest hidden behind a door in the back of the house.
A slain 9-point buck was found on the property, and it was not tagged as required by law. Wardens believe it was killed before deer hunting season opened. They seized the deer and an ATV that was used to hoist the deer into the Dions’ cellar.
Wayne Dion faces multiple charges including: taking big game out of season, taking, transporting and possession of big game by illegal means, spotlighting wild animals, feeding deer and failure to tag big game.
Jennie Dion faces charges of aiding in a big game violation and possession of big game taken by illegal means.
Each charge comes with a $250 to $500 penalty and a possible 60 day jail sentence.
The couple will be arraigned on Dec. 29 in Orleans Superior Court.
“Most Vermont hunters pursue game lawfully and respect hunting regulations,” said Major. Dennis Reinhardt, acting chief of law enforcement for Vermont Fish & Wildlife. “Those few who choose to poach animals face serious consequences and can seriously damage the hunting opportunities for those who follow the law.”
