Tucson– The Mule Deer Foundation, Rincon Outfitters and another concerned citizen have pledged an additional $600 in reward money for a conviction in the case of five deer illegally killed Aug. 21 or Aug. 22 at Redington Pass.

The latest reward offers make the grant total for an arrest or conviction in the case up to $3,100. The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Operation Game Thief and a second concerned citizen are offering up to $1,500 for information leading to an arrest. The Arizona chapter of Safari Club International and the Arizona Deer Association are each offering $500 for a conviction.

A White-tail doe and two yearlings, a buck and a doe were found shot dead Aug. 22 near Mile Marker 14.8 off Redington Pass Road. Also found dead were two fawns.

“Our local sportsmen community and others clearly want those responsible to be held accountable,” said Regional Supervisor Raul Vega of Game and Fish in Tucson. “Poachers are thieves stealing our wildlife, not hunters, and should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

The maximum penalty for poaching is six months in jail and a $750 fine for each violation. Civil penalties, as well as hunting and fishing license revocations, may also be imposed.

Individuals with information about wildlife violations are urged to call Operation Game Thief at 1-800-352-0700, 24-hours-a-day, seven days a week, anonymously if need be, and reference OGT#14-2362. Information may also be provided on-line at http://www.azgfd.gov/ogt.shtml

Redington Pass in the Coronado National Forest east of Tucson is used by hunters, Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) riders, recreational shooters and hikers.