A poacher pleads guilty to 14 counts in a high-profile trophy case

EDITOR’S NOTE: This story was originally published Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

COLUMBUS — Christopher J. Alexander, 28, of Wilmington, pleaded guilty to 14 counts of illegally taking an 18-point trophy whitetail deer in Clinton County on Nov. 9, 2023.

Alexander pleaded guilty to taking a second antlered deer during the 2023 hunting season, another violation of Ohio law, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife.

14 points include:

• Illegal removal or possession of deer (two)
• Hunting without a license
• Deer hunting without a permit
• Sale of antlers of illegally harvested or captured deer
• Spot lighting
• Hunting without a permit (four)
• Tampering with evidence
• Theft
• Misdemeanor theft
• Falsification

Alexander’s sentencing is scheduled for Wednesday, December 11. Maximum penalties can include a $13,750 fine, community supervision, a five-year hunting license suspension and restitution of both dollars.

The larger buck’s antlers are 18 points and the final recovery was calculated at $35,071.73. The final restitution for the second eight-point buck is $4,625.

Three accomplices also pleaded guilty in the case.

Cory P. Haunert, 29, of Hillsborough, pleaded guilty to six counts of:

• Attempt to falsify evidence
• Assisting a wildlife offender in taking or possessing deer (three)
• Hunting without permission
• Falsification

Christina M. Alexander, 37, of Blanchester, pleaded guilty to two counts of:

• Obstruction of official affairs
• Helping a wildlife violator

Zachary R. Haunert, 31, of Lebanon, pleaded guilty to one count of:

• Helping a wildlife violator

The Division of Wildlife enforces laws that protect Ohio’s wildlife. Public input and concerns are an integral part of these enforcement efforts.

Anyone who witnesses a wildlife violation in Ohio can call Turn in the poacher Hotline 1-800-POACHER (1-800-762-2437). Messages remain anonymous. Information leading to a wildlife crime conviction can lead to a reward.

Ohio wildlife officers have the authority to enforce wildlife regulations and protect public lands, waterways and state property. As state law enforcement officers, they contribute to public safety in their communities and the outdoors in Ohio.

They also communicate with hundreds of clubs and groups about conservation and wildlife conservation programs, conduct fish and wildlife research, and provide technical advice and guidance on wildlife management, hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreation.