It is illegal in Utah to intentionally kill livestock without the permission of the livestock’s owner. Utah hunters who shoot domesticated animals on what they thought was public land may face serious criminal charges, depending on the aggregate value of the livestock taken.
Many animals fall within the Utah definition of livestock, including:
- Cattle
- Sheep
- Goats
- Horses
- Mules
- Poultry
- Domesticated elk
The attorneys at Greg Smith and Associates represent individuals accused of livestock crimes in parks and forests throughout Utah, including Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Zion National Park and the Round Valley Wildlife Management Area.
Many individuals who are accused of livestock crimes make the mistake of talking to Wildlife Resources officers before consulting with an attorney. This often results in inadvertent confessions that impair a person’s ability to fight subsequent poaching charges.
If you have been charged with a livestock or poaching crime in Utah, contact our attorneys to discuss your case. You can call us at 801-651-1512 or contact us online.
Punishment for Wanton Destruction of Livestock
There are many possible consequences for illegally killing livestock. The severity of the charges often depends on the aggregate value of the livestock taken. If the livestock is deemed to be worth more than $5,000, then wanton destruction of livestock can be charged as a second-degree felony.
Second-degree felonies are considered major crimes in Utah. A conviction for a second-degree felony can carry a 15-year prison sentence and up to $10,000 in fines.
Individuals who kill livestock with vehicles may also face the forfeiture of their cars and may have to pay restitution to the owner of the livestock.
Contact Our Poaching Crimes Defense Law Firm
The livestock crimes defense attorneys at Greg Smith and Associates represent those who have been accused of poaching in all Utah communities, including those surrounding the Great Salt Lake, Bear Lake, Arches National Park and East Canyon State Park.
Our lead attorney, Gregory B. Smith, has prosecutorial experience and a reputation for zealously defending all of his clients. Contact us online or call our office at 801-651-1512 to arrange a free consultation about your case.