RIPLEY – The Maine Warden Service recently concluded the investigation into the four deer that were night-hunted in Ripley during the first week of October. Game wardens started investigating this criminal incident on Oct. 8 when a call was received about three dead deer found in a field on the Lane Road in Ripley, which is located in southern Somerset County. This case was made possible with the help of the public and considerable assistance and information sharing with the Somerset County Sheriff’s office. As a result of this information, warrants were obtained.
From those search warrants, game wardens say they were able to collect evidence and obtain further information about suspects involved in the killing of the deer. Deputies also reportedly found drug evidence at both residences. During the investigation wardens learned of a fifth deer that was night hunted by this group during the same time frame in October. Wardens also found a fresh deer that had been run over with a vehicle. The deer was kept and the crash was not reported to any law enforcement agency. Jesse Kwasnieski, 21, of Harmony, was arrested and charged with multiple violations in connection with the killing of the deer while night hunting.
“Biologists and wardens having been working hard to implement initiatives to increase the deer herd and provide quality hunting opportunities for deer hunters. This group has worked against the mission of the Department with their criminal hunting activity,” said Game Warden Lt. Kevin Adam. This case would have taken more time with increased difficulty without the help from the public. Operation Game Thief received important information that was critical to the investigation.
The following people have received summons as a result of this investigation.
Jesse Kwasniewski, 21, of Harmony: Arrested by warrant for three counts of night hunting, one count of hunting under the influence. Jesse Kwasniewski was also charged with two other counts of night hunting, five counts of hunting or possessing deer in closed season, shooting too close to a dwelling, shooting from motor vehicle, and hunting without a license.
Maynard Kwasniewski, 42, of Harmony: Arrested on warrant and summonsed for drug related violations. Summonsed for placing bait to entice deer, and possession of unlabeled deer meat.
Roger Bickmore, 23, of Harmony: Summonsed for possession of deer killed at night.
Vicki Boutilier, 44, of Harmony: Summonsed for possession of deer killed at night.
A 17-year-old juvenile female from the Dexter area: Summonsed for night hunting, illuminating wildlife, and illegal transportation of deer.
Three additional subjects are due to be charged in connection with this case.
Nice job wardens, now we hope the court will do its part.
Not surprised based on the area. They probably sold/traded all their food stamps for prescription pain pills and didn’t think about feeding their families until after they got their fix. That area had a major cocaine problem (if you don’t believe me talk to Artie from the ‘end domestic violence’ commercials), but there are many State dependents North of Skowhegan and Southwest of Bangor that are willing to sell off half if their supply. And why wouldn’t they, the State gives some of them 400 pills a month.
Idle hands are the Devil’s Workshop! These people need a real job and a healthy habit.
It’s hard enough deer hunting with the population the way it is in some areas of Maine, it’s too bad people like this take advantage of the system selfishly. How are we supposed to shoot our own deer in just a 25 day period when people are out shooting handfuls of them at night and whenever they want?
GREAT JOB, WARDENS!!
Keep up the good work, we honest folks appreciate all you do…….