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Not So "Mayhem" After All: Hunting Guide Pleads Guilty to Wildlife Violations

A recent guilty plea in federal court out of Tacoma, Washington, shines a spotlight on the serious consequences of violating wildlife protection laws. Branden Trager of Brush Prairie, Washington, and his company, Mayhem Services LLC, admitted to breaking federal hunting regulations, specifically the Lacey Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA).

What Happened?
In January 2023, Trager and Mayhem Services conducted a hunting trip in western Washington where they violated the MBTA. While the specific violations weren't fully detailed in the provided information, the MBTA prohibits actions like:

Hunting migratory birds with a vehicle.
Using a vehicle to herd birds.
Exceeding daily bag limits.
Failing to retrieve downed birds.
Transporting untagged birds belonging to someone else.
After these violations, the illegally taken birds were transported, which then violated the Lacey Act—a law designed to prevent the trafficking of unlawfully obtained wildlife across state or international borders.

But that's not all. Trager also confessed to an earlier offense from 2022. He guided waterfowl hunting trips in British Columbia, Canada, specifically targeting the prized harlequin duck, even though he wasn't legally allowed to operate as a hunting guide under Canadian law. Hunting for harlequin ducks was closed in Washington for the 2022-2023 season, making the British Columbia trips particularly suspect.

Why Does This Matter?
The harlequin duck is a small sea duck, highly sought after by hunters as a trophy and part of a challenge to hunt 41 different North American waterfowl species. Laws like the MBTA and the Lacey Act are crucial for protecting these species and ensuring healthy wildlife populations for future generations.

The Lacey Act, which is 125 years old, is the nation's oldest wildlife trafficking law. It's a powerful tool to stop the illegal trade of wildlife. The MBTA implements international treaties to ensure migratory birds remain sustainable. These laws aren't just minor rules; they are essential for conservation.

What's Next?
As a result of their guilty pleas, Trager faces a recommended fine of $100,000, and Mayhem Services LLC is looking at a $75,000 fine. Both parties have also agreed to recommend that the court order them to issue a public statement expressing remorse and emphasizing the importance of following hunting and wildlife regulations.

Sentencing for Trager and Mayhem Services LLC is scheduled for October 16th.

This case serves as a powerful reminder that hunting and guiding come with significant responsibilities. Following the rules isn't just about avoiding fines; it's about respecting wildlife and ensuring the future of these cherished natural resources.

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