Eli Matthew Stoltzfus, 28, of Leacock Township, PA was identified by Game Commission wardens for illegally baiting a trophy-class deer last November. In the excitement over the once-in-a-lifetime harvest, Stoltzfus posted a video of the hunt on YouTube.
The video raised concerns among viewers familiar with the area’s hunting regulations. Several tips to the local game warden prompted an investigation, leading to Stoltzfus being charged on Jan. 7th with hunting over bait and possessing an unlawful deer.
Pennsylvania Baiting Regulations
Hunting deer over bait is illegal throughout much of the state. However, it is legal in the suburban counties of Chester, Delaware, Mongomery, Bucks, and Philadelphia.
Moreover, in counties where baiting is permitted, there are strict regulations in place that limit the type of bait that can be used and require specific equipment and designated times for baiting.
Stoltzfus’ video clearly shows corn illegally placed on the ground in front of his tree stand. Using the video, Pennsylvania Game Commission Warden Greg Graham was able to track down and charge Stoltzfus.
The Investigation
When asked about the investigation Graham told LancasterOnline, “I’ve had cases before where pictures on social media led to prosecutions, but I’ve never had one where the whole incident was captured on video and then put on social media for everyone to see.”
From the video, investigators identified a logo on a van that led them to the property where the deer was harvested. Further, a local taxidermist was able to identify the deer and Stoltzfus.
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On Dec. 22nd, Graham and the investigation team served a warrant to the Stoltzfus home and confiscated the 12-point buck’s antlers and venison.
Stoltzfus pleaded guilty to the charges on Jan. 26th. He is facing a $6,000 fine and his Pennsylvania hunting privileges have been suspended for two years. Additionally, the antlers and meat from his trophy were confiscated.
The Trophy Antlers
Since the investigation is closed, Graham said the antler will be donated to the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area Visitors Center. They will be used for educational purposes.
In response to a reporter, Stoltzfus stated, “I knew you could bait in Chester (County), but I didn’t know all the other rules.”
The Video
The video of the hunt has been on and off of YouTube since November. It is reported to have had 25,000 views before its removal on Mar 24th.
When asked about the ethical standing of leaving the video public, Stoltzfus responded, “Whatever people are going to think, I really don’t care what they think.”
Concerning the video, Stoltzfus told reporters, “At this point, it’s all I have to remember the deer by.”
However, the video is currently set to private.