#474 Wildlife Crimes Uncovered: The Prison Poacher

This episode is wild in every sense of the word. Host Jason Harmon teams up with co‑host Amy Spencer as they welcome TWRA District 11 Lieutenant Tim Ward to uncover a jaw‑dropping story that blends big bucks, bigger mysteries, and the relentless work of Tennessee’s wildlife officers.We’re talking 491 inches of antler across three trophy bucks — including a double drop‑tine giant — all illegally taken from the grounds of the West Tennessee State Penitentiary. No, this isn't a movie plot… it's a real investigation led by real officers protecting Tennessee’s wildlife every single day.Tim walks us through how a single picture sent on Christmas Eve 2023 unraveled a multi‑year mystery. From tracking rumors and sorting out lies to uncovering deleted photos and navigating the challenges of policing a 6,000‑acre unfenced prison property — this case proves just how far wildlife officers go to defend our shared outdoor heritage.You'll hear how it unfolded, why tips matter, what the consequences were, and how these incredible deer will now serve Tennessee as educational mounts instead of hidden trophies.Plus, Tim shares heartwarming stories about hunting with his kids — a perfect reminder of why protecting wildlife truly matters. Don’t miss this one. Big deer, big stakes, big payoff.And remember… don’t poach. Ever. Your privilege to hunt is worth far more than a set of antlers.To purchase a license for great hunting and fishing adventures in Tennessee, visit gooutdoorstennessee.com.