Two face charges for illegally shooting elk

An anonymous tip that led investigators to quickly solve an elk-poaching case last November has finally resulted in criminal charges being filed against two Emporium men.

Douglas Petty, 19, and Eric Reed, 20, have until the end of next week to enter a plea before District Judge Alvin Brown. If they plead not guilty, Judge Brown will schedule a preliminary hearing.

Petty is charged with unlawful taking or possession of game or wildlife. He faces a $1,500 fine and restitution of $5,000, based on the value of the large bull elk, plus $61 in court costs.

Reed was cited for aiding in the unlawful taking of game or wildlife, subject to a $1,000 fine and $1,000 restitution, plus $61 in costs.

The Pa. Game Commission investigated the illegal elk kill on state game lands in Shippen Township, across from the Moore Hill Cemetery and not far from the game agency's office. That area has been a popular gathering spot for elkviewing.

Officials claim Petty and Reed shot the elk on Nov. 24, removed its 6-by-7 antlers and portions of its torso, and left the remain- der of the animal in the field.

Acting on a tip, investigators located the antlers and body parts at a Cameron County residence. A Game Commission spokesman said the delay in filing charges was the result of a backlog at the Pa. State Police crime lab.

Wildlife Conservation Office Doty McDowell of Elk County, who handled the initial