Poacher pleads guilty to 14 counts in high-profile trophy deer case

EDITOR’S NOTE: This story was originally published Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

COLUMBUS – Christopher J. Alexander, 28, of Wilmington, pleaded guilty to 14 counts of unlawfully taking an 18-point trophy whitetail deer in Clinton County on November 9, 2023.

Alexander pleaded guilty to taking a second antlered deer during the 2023 hunting season, which the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife said was another violation of Ohio law.

The 14 points include:

• Illegal removal or possession of deer (two)
• Hunting without a license
• Hunting without a permit for deer
• Sale of illegally stolen or in possession of deer antlers
• Spotlight
• Hunting without permission (four)
• Tampering with evidence
• Theft
• Petty theft
• Falsification

Alexander’s sentencing is scheduled for Wednesday, December 11. Maximum penalties could include fines of $13,750, community control, a five-year hunting license suspension and restitution of both dollars.

The larger buck’s antlers are worth 18 points and the final restitution is valued at $35,071.73. The final restitution for the second dollar with eight points scored is $4,625.

Three accomplices also pleaded guilty in the case.

Corey P. Haunert, 29, of Hillsboro, pleaded guilty to six counts:

• Attempted falsification of evidence
• Assisting a wildlife offender in capturing or possessing deer (three)
• Hunting without permission
• Falsification

Christina M. Alexander, 37, of Blanchester, pleaded guilty to two counts of:

• Obstruction of official activities
• Helping a Wildlife Violator

Zachary R. Haunert, 31, of Lebanon, pleaded guilty to one count of:

• Helping a Wildlife Violator

The Division of Wildlife is responsible for enforcing laws that protect Ohio’s wildlife. Public input and concern are an integral part of these enforcement efforts.

Anyone who witnesses wildlife disturbance in Ohio can call Hand over the poacher hotline 1-800-POACHER (1-800-762-2437). Messages remain anonymous. Information that leads to a conviction for a wildlife crime could lead to a reward.

Ohio Wildlife Officers have the authority to enforce wildlife regulations and protect state lands, waterways and property. As state law enforcement officers, they contribute to public safety in their communities and in Ohio’s outdoors.

They also communicate with hundreds of clubs and groups about conservation and wildlife programs, conduct fish and wildlife research, and provide technical advice and instruction on wildlife management, hunting, fishing and other outdoor recreation.