Poacher pleads guilty to 14 counts in high-profile taking of trophy buck in Clinton County
Christopher J. Alexander, 28, of Wilmington, on Tuesday pleaded guilty to 14 counts in the illegal taking of an 18-point trophy white-tailed buck deer in Clinton County on Nov. 9, 2023.
Alexander pleaded guilty to taking a second antlered buck during the 2023 hunting season, which is another violation of Ohio law, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife.
The 14 counts include:
• Illegal taking or possession of deer (two)
• Hunting without a license
• Hunting without a deer permit
• Selling illegally taken or possessed deer antlers
• Spotlighting
• Hunting without permission (four)
• Tampering with evidence
• Theft
• Misdemeanor theft
• Falsification.
Alexander’s sentencing is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 11. Maximum sanctions could include $13,750 in fines, community control, a five-year hunting license suspension and restitution for both bucks. The larger buck’s antlers have 18 scorable points, and the final restitution has been calculated at $35,071.73. The final restitution for the second buck, with eight scorable points, is $4,625.
Three accomplices also pleaded guilty in connection with the case.
Corey P. Haunert, 29, of Hillsboro, pleaded guilty to six counts:
• Attempted tampering with evidence
• Aiding a wildlife offender in taking or possessing of deer (three)
• Hunting without permission
• Falsification.
Kristina M. Alexander, 37, of Blanchester, pleaded guilty to two counts:
• Obstructing official business
• Aiding a wildlife offender.
Zachary R. Haunert, 31, of Lebanon, pleaded guilty to one count:
• Aiding a wildlife offender.
The Division of Wildlife is dedicated to enforcing laws that protect Ohio’s wildlife. Input and concern from the public are integral to those enforcement efforts. Anyone who witnesses a wildlife violation in Ohio can call the Turn in a Poacher hotline at 1-800-POACHER (1-800-762-2437). Reports are kept anonymous. Information that results in a conviction of a wildlife crime may result in a reward.
Ohio wildlife officers have statewide authority to enforce wildlife regulations and protect state lands, waterways, and property. As state law enforcement officers, they contribute to public safety in their local areas and Ohio’s great outdoors. They also speak to hundreds of clubs and groups about conservation and wildlife programs, perform fish and wildlife surveys, and provide technical advice and instruction about wildlife management issues, hunting, fishing, and other outdoor related recreation.
The mission of the Division of Wildlife is to conserve and improve fish and wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainable use and appreciation by all. Visit wildohio.gov to find out more.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
Publisher's note: A free press is critical to having well-informed voters and citizens. While some news organizations opt for paid websites or costly paywalls, The Highland County Press has maintained a free newspaper and website for the last 25 years for our community. If you would like to contribute to this service, it would be greatly appreciated. Donations may be made to: The Highland County Press, P.O. Box 849, Hillsboro, Ohio 45133. Please include "for website" on the memo line.