Illinois Conservation Police and Indiana Conservation Officers investigated cases of hunting license/permit fraud beginning in early 2015 extending through 2016 that has resulted in more than $85,000 in fines and restitution.
“Operation Double Dip was started to investigate individuals who claim residency in Illinois and Indiana to purchase hunting licenses/deer permits at the cheaper resident rate,” said Sgt. David Hyatt, Illinois Conservation Police. “This is a case that protects the privileges of our legitimate resident hunters and ensures that each state receives the funding needed for fish and wildlife projects.”
Both Indiana and Illinois laws state: “No person may claim residency in more than one state at the same time for the purpose of purchasing resident hunting or fishing licenses.” The investigation revealed many of the defendants had defrauded the state for several years.
In Illinois, 211 counts of falsification were filed. A 100 percent conviction rate was recorded against all Illinois defendants, who have been ordered to pay over $65,000 in restitution and fines. A total of 21 years of hunting privilege revocations were ordered against Illinois defendants.
Indiana recorded an estimated 57 defendants because of the investigation. The majority of Indiana cases are still pending, and the final amount of charges has not been determined. So far, $20,581.50 in restitution has been ordered and 12 years of hunting privileges have been revoked against Indiana defendants.
“Conservation Law Enforcement is an important component in the protection and continual improvement of our state’s natural resources,” said Col. Danny L. East, Indiana DNR Law Enforcement Division Director. “The cooperative efforts of both Indiana and Illinois law enforcement divisions were vital to the success of this case.”