Poacher Successfully Prosecuted in Yosemite National Park

Date: February 19, 2009

On Saturday, October 4th, 2008, Yosemite National Park Rangers arrested Phillip Bradley, 62, of Merced, California for poaching inside the boundary of Yosemite National Park. The arrest culminated a months-long investigation by the National Park Service and the California Department of Fish and Game. The investigation was initiated by an anonymous tip to the California Fish and Game tip-line, CalTip.

On Tuesday, February 3rd, 2009, Bradley pled guilty to one count of Title 16 USC 60, Hunting within the limits of Yosemite National Park and one count of Title 36 CFR 2.4(a)(1)(i), Possession of a weapon. Bradley was sentenced to 36 months of unsupervised probation and a $5,000.00 fine. Bradley forfeited his rifle, tree stand, rifle case, rifle scope and hunting knife. Additionally, Bradley received credit for three days of time served and was ordered to stay out of the Park for the duration of his probation.

Hunters who hunt near the Park boundary are reminded that it is their responsibility to know where they are at all times; the specific intent to hunt inside a National Park is not required to successfully prosecute 16 USC 60. Hunters are strongly encouraged to be familiar with their hunting grounds and where the Park boundary lies in relation to their hunting grounds. Hunters are also encouraged to make use of USGS 7.5' maps, compass and GPS units to ensure a safe and legal hunt.