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

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

COLUMBUS — Christopher J. Alexander, 28, of Wilmington, pleaded guilty to 14 counts of illegally taking an 18-point trophy white-tailed deer in Clinton County on Nov. 9, 2023.

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

The 14 charges include:

• Illegal taking or possession of deer (two)
• Hunting without a license
• Hunting without a deer license
• Sale of illegally captured or possessed deer antlers
• Spotlight
• Hunting without authorization (four)
• Tampering with evidence
• Flight
• Criminal theft
• Falsification

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

The antlers of the largest deer have 18 scoring points and the final restitution was calculated at $35,071.73. The final restitution for the second dollar, with eight scoring points, is $4,625.

Three accomplices also pleaded guilty in this case.

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

• Attempted tampering with evidence
• Helping a wildlife offender capture or possess a deer (three)
• Hunting without authorization
• Falsification

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

• Obstruction of official business
• Helping a Wildlife Offender

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

• Helping a Wildlife Offender

The Division of Wildlife is dedicated to enforcing laws that protect Ohio’s wildlife. Public input and concerns are an integral part of these law enforcement efforts.

Anyone who witnesses a wildlife violation in Ohio can call the Turn in a Poacher hotline at 1-800-POACHER (1-800-762-2437). Reports remain anonymous. Information that leads to a conviction for a wildlife crime may result in a reward.

Ohio wildlife officers have statewide authority to enforce wildlife regulations and protect state lands, waterways and properties. As state law enforcement officers, they contribute to public safety in their local areas and throughout Ohio’s great outdoors.

They also speak to hundreds of clubs and groups about conservation and wildlife programs, conduct fish and wildlife surveys, and provide technical advice and instruction on wildlife management issues, hunting , fishing and other outdoor recreation.