The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission has begun a program that could reward members of the public who report suspicious activity or provide knowledge related to wildlife poaching violations that results in a conviction. The Turn-In-Poachers (TIP) program was created to encourage any concerned citizen to report information on wildlife violations.
“Wildlife crimes affect us all, whether we are hunters, anglers, trappers, bird watchers or just someone who enjoys walking in the woods,” said Lt. B.J. Meyer, assistant training director and communications supervisor for the Commission’s Law Enforcement Division. “Despite our constant efforts, it is not possible for our officers to apprehend all violators on their own. We need the guidance and support of the public to be most effective, so we rely on our citizens to assist in the reduction of wildlife crimes.”
The Turn-In-Poachers program was developed in partnership with the N.C. Bowhunters Association to implement the Wildlife Poacher Reward Fund. The fund receives at least 10% of replacement and investigative costs (by court order) from adjudicated cases. Additional money to support the fund comes from wildlife law violators who are required to pay restoration fees directly to the NCWRC. The restoration fee replenishes the fund in the amount of the reward paid out to capture the poacher.
“Poaching includes the illegal take of game, fish, plants, trespassing, littering, theft, and destruction of property,” Lt. Meyer added. “With this new program and partnership, we can work together to protect our resources for the future enjoyment of all North Carolinians.”
These rewards range from $100 to $1,000, depending on the severity of the crime and the fines assessed by the court.
All tips received through the program will remain anonymous. However, to be eligible for the reward, you must provide the NCWRC with your name and contact information.
Tips can be submitted in four ways:
** Online: https://www.tipsubmit.com/webtipforms/webform.aspx?id=127&AgencyID=1304
** Mobile app: To install the free app, search for “TipSoft” or “TipSubmit” in the Google Play store (Android) or the Apple App Store (iOS).
** Text: Type WILDTIP and your message, then send it to 274637. Texts are anonymous, so senders must identify themselves in the body of the text in order to claim a reward. Message and data rates may apply.
** Phone: Call 1-855-WILDTIP. The hotline is available 24 hours a day to handle calls. The phone number is only for poaching-specific violations. For all other wildlife violations, questions and concerns, call 1-800-662-7137.
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