Warden's Watch

In this episode, we talk with Sgt. Blake Patterson, a Conservation Officer from Swan River, Manitoba, and President of the North American Game Warden Museum. Blake shares insights from his 17 years in the field and discusses the museum’s role in honoring game wardens and conservation officers across North America. Located at the International Peace Garden, the museum highlights the challenges of the profession and commemorates those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Our Sponsors: Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet North American Game Warden Museum Hunt Regs WiseEye SecureIt Gun Storage XS Sights “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Maine's Operation Game Thief International Wildlife Crimestoppers Here’s what we discuss: · The museum is a place every game warden should visit · Joined board in 2010 · It’s elk hunting season in Manitoba! · A unique moose lottery fundraiser · Manitoba moose population decline · “I’ve seen those game warden shows. I know I’m done.” · Fun regional expressions · The Fallen Officer Memorial Service · Many museum exhibits feature seized items · Antique snow machines and hand-powered rail cars · Always looking for older tools of the trade, uniforms and paraphernalia · Potential interactive exhibit featuring fallen officer biographies · A night hunting helicopter chase Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden’s Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Threads YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tucked into a scenic corner of the International Peace Garden, and straddling the border between North Dakota and Manitoba, Canada, the North American Game Warden Museum stands as the world’s only institution fully dedicated to both educating the public and honoring fallen wildlife officers. This one-of-a-kind museum features a memorial garden, exhibits showcasing uniforms and tools of the trade from decades past, along with a library, audio/visual area, and a fascinating collection of items seized by game wardens from across North America. In this episode, we sit down with museum manager Stephanie Lee for an insightful conversation ahead of the museum’s 2025 Fallen Officer Memorial Ceremony. Our Sponsors: Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet North American Game Warden Museum Hunt Regs SecureIt Gun Storage XS Sights “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Maine's Operation Game Thief International Wildlife Crimestoppers Here’s what we discuss: · Background in outdoor education · Began a summer job at the Peace Garden gate · Approached by the local game warden · “Never looked back.” · The International Peace Garden · Memorial stones from every state and province · Board members from both countries · The museum is the only one of its kind · Educating the public · Many of the exhibits include seized items · Constantly changing and reimagining the space · Campground on site · Other activities include biking and kayaking · Open from May – September · “Part-time photographers” · The popular Visiting Officer program Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden’s Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Threads YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In July 2021, a peaceful family camping trip in Ohio’s vast Appalachian Hills Wilderness Area turned into a chilling crime scene. Two lives were lost, and a community was shaken. In this gripping episode, we sit down with ODNR Investigator Kirk Kiefer to uncover the layers of a complex and haunting double homicide. Our Sponsors: Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet North American Game Warden Museum Hunt Regs SecureIt Gun Storage XS Sights “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Maine's Operation Game Thief International Wildlife Crimestoppers Here’s what we discuss: · Investigator Keifer appeared in a previous episode · International Game Warden Association Officer of the Year · ODNR’s nomination submission · The ‘ginseng detective’ · Nomination was kept secret! · A missing persons / suspicious activity report on State land · The couple’s phones - and daughter - were left behind · Suspect claimed the couple had gone to CA and were expected back · A concerned camper contacted ODNR · The couple’s license plate had recently been checked on the Interstate · Suspect had a ‘tell.’ · “He was convinced I was a human lie detector.” · The sudden confession: “I killed ‘em.” · Killings had happened 13 days prior · Suspect led investigators to the bodies · Defense attorney admitted there was no defense to be mounted · Claimed he was ‘rescuing’ the child · Body cameras were used in case the suspect did not testify · Appeared to feel badly about killing the female. · “Sometimes there is no ‘why’.” · Never expected to be investigating homicide · Attended the couple’s memorial services · Inter-agency cooperation was key to this case · Killer received two automatic life terms with no parole Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden’s Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Threads YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the third time we were able to sit down at the International Game Warden conference held this year in Erie, Pennsylvania, with Game Warden Chris Gilkey of Ohio, Game Warden Chris McCabe of the Maine Warden Service, myself, Wayne Saunders host of Wardens Watch podcast, and Game Warden Andy Hueser of the Pennsylvania Game Commission who was also instrumental in the organization and implementation of this year's game warden conference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Introducing The Game Warden Channel! From the creators of smash hits North Woods Law and Lone Star Law, TGWC is now streaming exclusively on YouTube - bringing you even more real-life stories from game wardens across the US. In this episode, we go behind the scenes with Steve Engel and Ben Shank of Engel Entertainment, Director of Photography Jamie Azar, and New Hampshire’s own Col. Kevin Jordan and Conservation Officers Jon Demler, Austin Valladares, Kevin Bronson, and Josiah Towne. Subscribe now for an even closer look into the world of conservation law enforcement. Our Sponsors: Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet North American Game Warden Museum Hunt Regs SecureIt Gun Storage XS Sights “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Maine's Operation Game Thief International Wildlife Crimestoppers Here’s what we discuss: · “We’re back!” · The first call was to New Hampshire · YouTube allows more flexibility · Episodes will feature NH, then move to Texas, Nevada, and other states · NH Fish & Game staff voted unanimously to participate · Carrying the torch for conservation and conservation officers · “I’d rather be doing this than probably anything else in television.” · Officers and camera crew become good friends · A turkey poacher in the wrong neighborhood · New show features a smaller crew than network television · "It's on the interwebs!" Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden’s Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Threads YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Greg Traynor and Mike Hudson are the co-hosts of the Accessible Hunter Podcast, a show dedicated to promoting adaptive hunting and outdoor access for individuals with disabilities. Greg Traynor, a passionate outdoorsman from Pennsylvania, turned his personal experience with a spinal cord injury into a mission to help others overcome physical barriers in the outdoors. Through advocacy, education, and storytelling, Greg inspires hunters to stay connected with the hunting community regardless of ability. Mike Hudson, based in South Carolina, brings his own adaptive hunting experience and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by disabled hunters. Together, Mike and Greg use the Accessible Hunter Podcast to share powerful stories of resilience, adaptive equipment innovation, and the tight-knit community of accessible hunting enthusiasts. Their platform highlights not only the triumphs of adaptive hunters but also the importance of making the outdoors inclusive for everyone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lt. Anthony Rigoli is an Environmental Conservation Officer (ECO) who works for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC). In this episode, he takes us through his time as an ECO based in the last place anyone would expect to run into a game warden - New York City! Our Sponsors: Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet North American Game Warden Museum Hunt Regs SecureIt Gun Storage XS Sights “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Maine's Operation Game Thief International Wildlife Crimestoppers Here’s what we discuss: · The Great American Outdoor Show · Many new officers begin in New York City · “It’s a unique experience.” · Assigned to Marine Enforcement Unit · Specialized training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) · Encountering high-end watercraft · “Being a cop is dangerous. Being out on the ocean is dangerous.” · Many people are unaware there are game wardens in NYC · Checking fish markets for prohibited goods · The not-so-secret signal for illegal turtles · City-dwelling coyotes · Piloting a brand new 44-foot jet boat · The challenges of living and working in the city · “You’ll come away with experiences that no other game warden is going to get.” · Working with highly experienced and talented officers · Shoreline fishing in Manhattan and crafty hiding spots · Tips from the public matter · 17 conservation officers policing 8 million people · An outrageous illegal chemical dumping case Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden’s Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Threads YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Seth Allen Martin is an American cinematographer and camera operator best known for his work on the hit Animal Planet series North Woods Law: New Hampshire. Born on February 11, 1984, in Sumner, Washington, Martin has built a career behind the lens, capturing the rugged beauty and raw intensity of wildlife law enforcement across New England. With a strong background in independent film and documentary-style production, Martin joined the North Woods Law crew during the show's transition from Maine to New Hampshire. His camera work helped bring viewers closer to the action—documenting everything from high-stakes poaching investigations to remote search-and-rescue missions in the backcountry. Outside of television, Martin has also served as director of photography for several indie film projects, including Die-ner (Get It?) (2009). Known for his steady eye, adaptability in extreme conditions, and dedication to authentic storytelling, Martin continues to contribute to conservation-themed media and outdoor adventure filmmaking. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we delve into the long and distinguished career of Deming Lindsley, a retired Lieutenant from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's Division of Law Enforcement. Known for his expertise in Fish and Wildlife Law, Lindsley served as a primary instructor at both the State College and the Division’s Training Academy for decades. His engaging personality and sense of humor made him popular among both colleagues and students, and he continues to guest lecture today, leaving a lasting impact on countless officers – including our host! Our Sponsors: Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet North American Game Warden Museum Hunt Regs SecureIt Gun Storage XS Sights “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Maine's Operation Game Thief International Wildlife Crimestoppers Here’s what we discuss: · Taught Fish & Wildlife Law at state university and Law Enforcement training Academy. · Authored a charging reference guide for judges · No bail in New York · Patrolling with Dad · Growing up the game warden’s kid · Assigned first patrol in 1972 · Promoted to Lieutenant in just four years · Teaching at Academy vs. College · The unintentional getaway driver · A news crew ride-along catches a poacher red-handed · “You don’t need a license to jack deer.” · Attempted bribe doesn’t go as planned · Little green lies · Even municipal employees can be tempted · “Don’t go down to the cellar.” · Keeping up with changing Fish & Wildlife laws · People want to talk about animals and laws · More lightning strikes than black bear attacks. · “I never had to go to work.” · Spearheaded one of the first Critical Incident Response teams · Sent to NYC on 9/11 · Awards and plaques of thanks from all over · Tried to enforce the spirit of the law, rather than the letter of the law · Not all violators are criminals · Teaching generations of conservation law officers · A namesake K9 · “Do the job. You’ll never regret it.” Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden’s Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Threads YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jorge Ventura is a national correspondent known for his bold, on-the-ground reporting across America’s most pressing issues, including the southern border crisis, cartel activity, and civil unrest. Now with NewsNation, Ventura previously made headlines as a lead field reporter for The Daily Caller, where his immersive storytelling took him deep into the heart of stories often ignored by mainstream media. Ventura is also an award-winning documentary filmmaker, with investigative features like Cartelville USA, Narcofornia, and Indoctrination Nation—projects that exposed illegal marijuana operations, cartel influence, and ideological shifts in public education. His work has been featured on Fox News, BBC, Sky News, and Yahoo News. Follow Jorge Ventura on X: @VenturaReport and Instagram: @jorgeventuratv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Maine Warden Service Pilot Daryl Gordon was known for his faith, his love of family, fishing and flying, and his steadfast dedication to the people and natural resources of his home state. While flying over the North Maine Woods after a busy day of service, Pilot Gordon’s Cessna went down in a snow squall, prompting a massive search. Warden Preston Pomerleau, whose K9 service partner is named in Gordon’s honor, shares his memories of that day, and reflects on how the entire Maine Warden Service continues to honor and remember their friend. “It is not how these officers died that made them heroes; it is how they lived.” ~ National Law Enforcement Memorial, Washington, DC Our Sponsors: Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet North American Game Warden Museum Hunt Regs SecureIt Gun Storage XS Sights “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Maine's Operation Game Thief International Wildlife Crimestoppers Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden’s Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Threads YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fans of the hit Animal Planet show North Woods Law will instantly recognize CO Josiah Towne. In this episode, Josiah takes us behind the scenes into the dynamic world of a New Hampshire conservation officer, from daring mountain rescues to wild chases, along with some truly unforgettable moments. Join us for a look into the world of a real-life wildlife hero! Our Sponsors: Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet North American Game Warden Museum Hunt Regs SecureIt Gun Storage XS Sights “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Maine's Operation Game Thief International Wildlife Crimestoppers Here’s what we discuss: · New Hampshire is hiring! · Appearing on North Woods Law · Every day is different; every season is different · Making a dent in the illegal elver trade · A riverside arrest gone awry · Improving handcuff techniques · Patrolling your hometown · Recognizing fresh perspectives · The Hawk Unit · A remarkable rescue operation · Any trail with the word ‘slide’ in the name… · The arduous rescue “was all worth it.” · Many visitors create increased requests for service · The local Scoutmaster Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden’s Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Threads YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gary Lewis is an award-winning outdoor writer, television host, podcaster, and speaker based in Central Oregon. Since launching his career in 1995, he has become a respected voice in the hunting and fishing world, with over 16 books to his name and countless articles published in major outdoor magazines. He hosts the TV series Frontier Unlimited and the Gary Lewis Outdoorsman podcast, sharing real-world adventures from Oregon to Africa. Known for his deep knowledge of firearms, big game tactics, and conservation ethics, Gary continues to inspire sportsmen and women with his storytelling and passion for the outdoors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Monday, April 21st, New Hampshire CO Rob McDermott will run the Boston Marathon® in honor of his friend and colleague, Levi Frye. Partnering with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), Rob is raising funds to support AFSP's prevention programs, advocacy, education, and survivor support. Next, we will hear from AFSP spokesman David O’Leary, who shares important information about suicide risk and offers suggestions on how to help a friend or loved one who may be struggling. Finally, Sgt. Matt Holmes reads the beautiful eulogy he wrote to honor Levi at his funeral service. Support Suicide Prevention With Conservation Officer Rob McDermott Our Sponsors: Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet North American Game Warden Museum Hunt Regs “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Maine's Operation Game Thief International Wildlife Crimestoppers Here’s what we discuss: · Turkey hunting and a fiddlehead harvest · Joined Fish & Game shortly after Levi · Roommates in the game warden house · Eric Fluette and the anonymous ring sizing kit · Levi was set to receive his second congressional medal · Partnering with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention · Fundraising and training for the Boston Marathon® · Running with Levi: “we’d get lapped multiple times.” · Funds raised will help provide resources to others who have lost a loved one · Ways to offer support: Support Rob’s run directly through Give and Gain The New Hampshire Conservation Officers Relief Association · Up to 200 first responders die by suicide each year in the US · Follow the impulse to reach out · It’s okay to use the word ‘suicide.’ · The most important thing you can do is listen · Changing our language: “You don’t ‘commit cancer’ or ‘commit high blood pressure’.” · Boston Marathon® and others allow charities to apply for bibs as fundraisers · Team AFSP at the marathon · 1 in 5 Americans has a connection to a mental health issue · Find information and support here: AFSP · Sgt. Matt Holmes reads Levi’s eulogy: A man of commitment, and a man in green. Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden’s Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Threads YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is dedicated to the life and legacy of New Hampshire Conservation Officer Levi Frye. Today, we honor Levi's commitment to protecting our natural world through a lighthearted but insightful interview he gave before his passing, where he shares his passion for his work, the outdoors, and his lifelong dedication to physical fitness. As we reflect on his life, we will also hear a heartfelt poem written and read by Lt. Mark Ober at Levi's funeral service. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to the 988 Suicide Crisis Hotline. Support the Frye family: https://nh-cora.org/donations/givewp-donation-fryefamily/ Our Sponsors: Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet North American Game Warden Museum Hunt Regs SecureIt Gun Storage XS Sights “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Maine's Operation Game Thief International Wildlife Crimestoppers Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden’s Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Threads YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our final episode celebrating Women's History Month 2025, we’re excited to welcome Maine game warden Mindy Rugg. Inspired by our very own podcast, Mindy transitioned from a successful career as a vet tech to become a game warden in 2021. Join us as she shares her journey, the challenges she faces, and the unique perspective women bring to the job. Our Sponsors: Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet North American Game Warden Museum Hunt Regs SecureIt Gun Storage XS Sights “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Maine's Operation Game Thief International Wildlife Crimestoppers Here’s what we discuss: · Gained many skills in her previous career as a vet tech · Needed to be outside · Listened to the Warden’s Watch podcast · Not everyone loves the game warden · Hired in 2021, full-time in 2022 · Checking hundreds of boats a day · On the job experience can be the best communication training · People react well if you treat them fairly · Strategies to manage dyslexia · Spell check, Grammarly, and text-to-speech · Working in Western Maine – close to home, but not too close · “Every single day I learn something new.” · Mindy’s favorite Warden’s Watch episode · Maine Warden Service now has seven female officers · Many companies don’t make clothing for women in law enforcement · Don’t talk yourself out of it - make it happen · It’s no longer a shock to meet a female game warden · Women can bring a different perspective to the job Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden’s Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Threads YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we’re delighted to reconnect with Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Officer Rachel Thurner-Diaz, who joined us way back in Episode 81. A lot has changed in the three years since we visited last; her husband has joined the local police department, and she is now balancing the demanding roles of a dedicated officer and a busy mom. Join us as we continue to explore the unique experiences and perspectives of women in conservation law enforcement. Our Sponsors: Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet North American Game Warden Museum Hunt Regs SecureIt Gun Storage XS Sights “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Maine's Operation Game Thief International Wildlife Crimestoppers Here’s what we discuss: · Officer Thurner-Diaz was a previous guest in Episode 81 · Two law enforcement officers at home · PA is recruiting wardens · Protecting wildlife is a passion · More women are joining conservation law · The Fab Five · Game wardens of both genders need to be motivated and independent · Taught by Jeff Baile – another previous Warden’s Watch guest · Be compassionate but call out deception · A heated hunter and mistaken identity · PA has two wildlife agencies · The volunteer fish stocking program · Using the ‘mom voice’ · Work-life balance can be challenging · Looking forward to summer · Trout stockers still don’t eat much trout Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden’s Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Threads YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Back in 2018, a small group of female officers from Alberta Fish and Wildlife saw the need to engage with each other more actively and support community causes at the same time. This dedicated team has since participated in charity fundraisers, launched an outdoor education camp for young women, and is now working to establish a scholarship to help even more women join conservation law enforcement. Let’s meet Alberta’s Wonder Wardens! Our Sponsors: Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet North American Game Warden Museum Hunt Regs SecureIt Gun Storage XS Sights “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Maine's Operation Game Thief International Wildlife Crimestoppers Here’s what we discuss: · The beginnings of the Wonder Wardens · Camaraderie and promoting women in conservation law · Polar dipping in uniform for charity · Summer camp for future female game wardens · Wildlife identification, hunting & fishing checks, drills and a mock investigation · The break-in period · “We complement each other.” · Self-confidence matters · People often make assumptions · Plans to expand Wonder Wardens · Proceeds from merch sales will fund a scholarship · “We’re small but we’re mighty.” · The importance of agency support · NAWEOA offers an opportunity to connect and share · Uniforms and equipment are changing · Shooting competitions – an all-female team · Close encounters during grizzly relocations · Hunters are sometimes surprised to encounter a female warden team Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden’s Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Threads YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

141 CJ Alexander – The Podcasters Wrapping up the CJ Alexander series, we sit down with Christian Babcock and Jake Gaylord, the dynamic duo behind the popular Hunters Advantage podcast. In early 2024, Alexander made a memorable appearance on their podcast, spinning his well-worn underdog tale of an unbelievably lucky trophy buck - a tale that took a dramatic turn when it was later revealed he had already confessed to poaching it. Our Sponsors: Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet North American Game Warden Museum Hunt Regs SecureIt Gun Storage XS Sights “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Maine's Operation Game Thief International Wildlife Crimestoppers Here’s what we discuss: Christian posts, then removes, a video questioning the Alexander buck Hunters Advantage podcast invites Alexander to tell his story All large deer taken can be controversial Alexander tells the hosts a convincing enough tale “I came out of it with kind of an uneasy feeling.” Alexander had appeared on the podcast after confessing to game wardens The court-ordered apology letter Public opinion was split Misdemeanor charges moved to felony levels Podcast appearances could have been used in sentencing Technology makes poaching hard to hide Antlers are like fingerprints Podcast generated both positive and negative feedback “We’re just common men with a nice microphone.” Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden’s Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Threads YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Picking up from our last episode, we sit down with two of the Ohio game wardens responsible for bringing this case before the court. Wildlife Officers Isaiah Gifford and Matt Roberts outline the meticulous effort and tiny details that led to the indictment and ultimate guilty plea of the now-infamous poacher, CJ Alexander. See this episode on YouTube here: EP140 CJ Alexander Buck The Officer's interview Our Sponsors: Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet North American Game Warden Museum Hunt Regs SecureIt Gun Storage XS Sights “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Maine's Operation Game Thief International Wildlife Crimestoppers Here’s what we discuss: · Investigation began as a typical follow up when a trophy animal is taken · Alexander spins his tale · Wildlife officers visit the alleged kill site · The staged site seems unusual, but mostly believable · A video arrives showing the animal 10 miles away · Wardens take a closer look · A bait pile and other evidence is found · Trail camera photos show the deer in the area · A grid search locates more evidence · Tiny details in a photo confirm officers’ suspicions · “There’s a knife – and there’s another knife!” · Alexander admits lying about the site · Antlers had already been sold, and are confiscated · Foliage at the supposed kill site does not match photos · Search warrants solidify the evidence · The poacher continues to make false claims publicly · Charges include tampering with evidence and theft by deception · Investigators meticulously pore through the evidence · “At the end of the day, we knew what we had.” · An Ohio record for restitution Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden’s Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Threads YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices