Brownsburg man admits to deer poaching near Eagle Creek Park - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

Indiana Conservation Officers say a Brownsburg man has admitted to killing a buck known as "Nightmare."

According to officers, Don Ward, 47, of Brownsburg, admitted to killing the deer with a .270 caliber rifle during the early morning hours Tuesday on private property near Eagle Creek Park. Charges related to the killing of the deer are under consideration.

 "This poaching case serves as a prime example of how such a theft of our natural resources impacts Indiana's deer hunting community", stated Wells. According to Wells, "The big buck was known and revered by local hunters. Area deer hunters have spent years lawfully pursuing the buck they had nicknamed "Nightmare."

Wells said that lawful hunters are angry and upset that such a majestic animal would be killed in this manner. In addition, conservation officers point out how shooting a high-powered rifle at night in a residential area poses a significant public safety risk to people living nearby.

Wildlife crimes are Class B Misdemeanor offenses with potential sentences of up to 180 days in jail and fines of up to $1,000 per violation. Additional penalties can include suspension of hunting privileges, reimbursement costs for the deer and forfeiture of equipment involved.

Indiana Conservation Officers have been assisted in the ongoing investigation by Hendricks County Sheriff's Department Deputies.