Two Sidney men, Talburt Halfred and Shawn Daleske, were recently arrested on felony charges related to the unlawful killing of seven mule deer does and fawns near Bloomfield, Mont., in Dawson County in December 2024.

The investigation began when Montana game warden Maribeth Ault received a report about suspicious behavior, including spotlighting, and the discovery of two freshly killed deer. Warden Ault and warden Gregory Conitz responded to the scene and discovered seven mule deer doe and fawn carcasses that had been shot with rifles and left to waste.

Evidence found at the scene and assistance from other local law enforcement agencies led the wardens to identify Halfred and Daleske as suspects. Interviews of Halfred and Daleske resulted in confessions to multiple wildlife crimes, but they are presumed innocent until guilt can be established beyond a reasonable doubt.

Halfred and Daleske are each charged with one felony count of unlawful possession of a game animal, and three misdemeanor counts for waste of game, hunting during a closed season, and failure to obtain landowner permission for hunting.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Enforcement staff expressed thanks to the Sidney Police Department, Richland County Sheriff’s Office, Dawson County Sheriff’s Office, and Dawson County Attorney’s Office for their assistance in this investigation. Additionally, the initial report made to Warden Ault by a local landowner was critical in this investigation.

Anyone with information about crimes against wildlife or state lands is encouraged to visit tipmont.mt.gov or to contact their local warden to provide details. Those who report information may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

Source: Montana FWP Facebook