A hunter in Virginia has pleaded guilty to killing a well-known and beloved deer on the premises of the historic Hollywood Cemetery. Jason Walters of Richmond, Virginia, is facing time in jail and hefty fines after pleading guilty to all 20 misdemeanors that he faced in the Richmond General District Court. Walters will have to pay fines on all counts and restitution totaling over $13,000. His sentence includes 4 months in jail and nearly 7 years of suspended jail time. Additionally, Walters’ hunting license has been revoked for 100 years, with 75 years suspended, effectively a minimum of 25 years of active loss of his license.
Another hunter, Alan Proffitt, was also involved in the killing of the “Hollywood Buck” and has pleaded guilty to all 6 charges against him. Proffitt has received a $250 fine on 5 counts and 6 months in jail with 5 months suspended on the remaining count. His hunting license privileges have been revoked for 5 years, with 4 years suspended on each of the 6 counts, totaling a 6-year loss of his hunting privileges. The incident stirred controversy and outrage among hunting and wildlife enthusiasts, with the Department of Wildlife Resources launching an investigation.
The iconic “Hollywood Buck” had roamed the grounds of the Hollywood Cemetery in Richmond for years, becoming a local favorite. Its distinctive antlers and sheer size made it a beloved and recognizable creature. The deer’s killing was a serious violation of Virginia’s wildlife laws, sparking concern among the local community and wildlife advocates. Investigation into the incident was a priority for the Conservation Police Officers assigned to the case, leading to the recovery of evidence and the identification of the suspects. The hunters were caught due to pictures shared on a Facebook hunting page and the vigilance of the wildlife community.
The story of the poaching incident quickly gained attention after photos of the slain deer were posted on a Facebook page by Jeff Phillips called Star City Whitetails. Phillips, who holds a deer contest every year, received photos of the “Hollywood Buck” from Walters, who bragged about his kill. The distinctive antlers of the deer immediately made it recognizable as the popular local stag living near Hollywood Cemetery. While the initial response to the photos was congratulatory, users turned against the poacher once the true nature of the kill was revealed.
The incident served as a reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation and the consequences of illegal hunting. The “Hollywood Buck” had been a cherished part of the community, and its killing outraged many. Poaching not only threatens the biodiversity and survival of animal species but also violates laws put in place to protect wildlife. The actions of the hunters led to legal repercussions, including fines, jail time, and the loss of hunting privileges. The investigative efforts of the Department of Wildlife Resources and the cooperation of the local community were instrumental in bringing the offenders to justice.
Despite the unfortunate circumstances surrounding the killing of the “Hollywood Buck,” the incident shed light on the role of social media in aiding law enforcement and raising awareness about wildlife crimes. The vigilant actions of wildlife enthusiasts and the assistance provided by the Facebook page host played a crucial role in identifying the suspects and ensuring they were held accountable for their actions. The case serves as a cautionary tale for those who engage in illegal hunting practices and highlights the importance of community engagement in protecting and preserving wildlife for future generations.
