Poachers caught with loaded guns and headless deer in California forest

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State wildlife officers uncovered an illegal hunting operation in Angeles National Forest, apprehending three suspects who unlawfully killed and dismembered two deer.

Specific dates were not provided, but the California Department of Fish and Wildlife said wardens received several reports of unlawful deer hunting and "spotlighting" throughout August.

”After receiving a tip from a vigilant member of the public, officers conducted targeted night patrols in the area. During one of the patrols, officers observed two vehicles off-roading and shining a spotlight into the forest; an illegal and highly dangerous method of hunting,” the CDFW posted Friday on Facebook.

Officers stopped both vehicles and detained three individuals. During initial contact, officers noticed blood on the suspects' clothing and hands, prompting a comprehensive investigation.

During the investigation, officers discovered loaded firearms, spotlights within easy reach, and two freshly killed female deer,'' the agency continued.

One deer had been completely skinned, while the other had been quartered; both were headless and concealed in black trash bags. The suspects admitted to illegally killing the deer and attempting to conceal evidence.''

All three suspects were cited, arrested, and released. Wildlife wardens seized all firearms, both bodies, and additional physical evidence.

``Multiple violations were documented, including unlawful take of female deer, taking deer without licenses or tags, possession of untagged meat, possession of loaded firearms in a vehicle, illegal method of take, and spotlighting,'' the CDFW said.

Anyone who sees or suspects a wildlife crime is asked to contact CALTIP 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-888-334-2258.