Whitehorse — Two thinhorn sheep illegally harvested in Yukon have been returned to the territory after a joint investigation by Yukon and U.S. wildlife enforcement agencies culminated in guilty pleas and more than $100,000 in combined fines.
Cross-border co-operation led to convictions
A joint statement issued by the Yukon government, the U.S. National Park Service and the Alaska Wildlife Troopers says the two rams were handed back to Yukon officials at an enforcement meeting in May. The investigation found three American hunters had unlawfully harvested the animals in the territory but reported the kills as having occurred in Alaska.
The trio entered guilty pleas in Yukon territorial court in December 2024. Each hunter was fined $10,000, with those fines directed to the territory’s Turn in Poachers and Polluters Fund. In addition, two of the hunters were fined $3,500 each after pleading guilty to wasting meat from the sheep. Authorities described the resolution as the result of sustained cross-border co-operation among enforcement agencies.
Enforcement outcomes and penalties
- Two thinhorn rams returned to Yukon in May.
- Three U.S. hunters pleaded guilty in Yukon territorial court (December 2024).
- Each hunter fined $10,000 to the Turn in Poachers and Polluters Fund.
- Two hunters received additional $3,500 fines for wasting meat.
The case highlights ongoing challenges around remote hunting areas near the international border and the importance of cross-jurisdictional investigations when offences span jurisdictions. Returning the animals to Yukon authorities was described as part of the government’s effort to restore resources taken from the territory.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fine per hunter (to Yukon fund) | $10,000 |
| Additional fine for wasting meat (two hunters) | $3,500 |
While officials did not publish further personal details about the hunters, the joint statement underscores that enforcement agencies from both sides of the border continued to collaborate through the investigation and prosecution. The Turn in Poachers and Polluters Fund, which received the fines, supports conservation and enforcement efforts in the territory.
For Yukoners who rely on wildlife for food and culture, the case is a reminder of the legal and ethical obligations that accompany hunting in the North. It also illustrates the capacity of territorial enforcement and international partners to pursue cases that involve cross-border elements.
Local hunters and outfitters should continue to ensure permits, reporting and harvesting locations are accurate and lawful. Anyone with information about wildlife offences can contact Yukon enforcement authorities or the appropriate U.S. agencies when cross-border activity is suspected.
