Tag: Conservation Officer

Here’s what we discuss:

Yukon’s Conservation Officer Services Branch and its role
Nunavut: Canada’s newest territory
Nunavut’s unique conservation structure
“There’s at least one conservation officer in every community.”
Patrolling without roads: snowmobiles, ATVs, boats, and planes
Polar bear management and why it’s handled by territories, not federal agencies
Community policing: “education over enforcement.”
Modern polar bear research using DNA instead of tags
Differences between Nunavut and Yukon: isolation vs. road access and teamwork
“The biggest difference in Yukon? Roads. Having a truck changes everything.”
Wildlife species and hunting traditions: caribou, muskox, seals, moose, sheep, and Arctic char
A polar bear deterrence gone wrong
Life in remote communities
“My favorite thing was just getting out on the land – patrolling, hunting, fishing.”

Credits

Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores

Producer: Jay Ammann

Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett

Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches

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159 Justice for Dave: A Poacher’s Reckoning

Posted on November 11, 2025November 11, 2025 by nhfishcop10

In this powerful episode of Warden’s Watch, Pennsylvania Game Wardens Phil Bietsch & TJ Knash share the story of a career-defining poaching case tied to the tragic death of fellow officer David Grove on Veteran’s Day 2010. From building trust to securing confessions, this case is a masterclass in investigative work and emotional resilience. Listen now to hear how justice was served, and a legacy honored.

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Here’s what we discuss:

Phil and TJ were classmates at the Ross Leffler School of Conservation
Working as neighboring officers for four years, they’ve developed a strong investigative partnership
Emphasis on teamwork, rhythm in interviews, and rapport-building
Ryan Laumann is a known habitual game law offender
The case ties back to the tragic death of Game Warden Dave Grove in 2010, who was murdered by Chris Johnson during a poaching incident
Laumann was a passenger in the vehicle
Laumann “just went home.”
Johnson is now on death row
Equipment and training were improved
Laumann received a five-year license revocation
A tip from a former violator turned informant via Operation Game Thief
“I got away with it once, I can do it again.”
TJ took the lead
Keeping emotions in check
“Take your time.”
Officers conducted surveillance near Laumann’s residence
Multiple deer carcasses, gut piles, and antlers
Officers used rapport and strategic interviewing to gain Laumann’s trust
Jeff Baile’s interview and interrogation techniques were critical
Allowing the suspect to tell their version of the story
Laumann eventually confesses to killing multiple deer
From a good case to a great case
“Rapport is the foundation of everything.”
Laumann was charged with:
- 3 counts of illegal deer3 tagging violations
- 3 counts of scattering high-risk parts
- 1 over-the-bag-limit charge
Final penalties: 5-year hunting license revocation and $2,800 in fines

Credits

Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores

Producer: Jay Ammann

Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett

Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches

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The Killing Krew Klan: Consequences

Posted on October 19, 2025October 19, 2025 by nhfishcop10

After the chilling revelations of Episode 156’s “Killing Krew Klan,” the question remained: how would the justice system respond? What consequences did these young trophy hunters face, and did the punishment fit the crime? In this episode, Investigator Patrick Kiely returns to walk us through the penalty phase of the case. Join us as we uncover the final chapter in one of Connecticut’s most disturbing wildlife crimes.

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Here’s what we discuss:

Convictions for wildlife crime aren’t always a slam dunk
The prosecutor in the case was an outdoorsman
Original roadside stop netted only a suspended sentence
Paring down up to 30 charges: what will stick?
Group pled guilty to jacklighting
$500 fines and three years’ probation
Banned from hunting for ten years
Conspiracy to sell wildlife and a probation violation
Getting support from judges and prosecutors
“Any time you serve a warrant … you’re opening a Pandora’s Box.”

Credits

Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores

Producer: Jay Ammann

Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett

Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches

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155 Blake Patterson – North American Game Warden Museum

Posted on September 18, 2025September 18, 2025 by nhfishcop10

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.

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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

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149 Deming Lindsley (Ret.) – New York

Posted on June 9, 2025June 9, 2025 by nhfishcop10

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!

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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

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147 Josiah Towne – New Hampshire

Posted on May 3, 2025May 3, 2025 by nhfishcop10

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!

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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

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Support Suicide Prevention With Conservation Officer Rob McDermott

146 Run for Levi – With Rob McDermott

Posted on April 16, 2025May 1, 2025 by nhfishcop10

On Monday, April 21^st, 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.

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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

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145 In Memory of Officer Levi Frye

Posted on April 11, 2025April 11, 2025 by nhfishcop10

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/

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Credits

Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores

Producer: Jay Ammann

Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett

Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches

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142 Wonder Wardens – With Melissa Gauthier & Therese Bogatko

Posted on March 11, 2025March 11, 2025 by nhfishcop10

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!

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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

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138 Wardens:Case Files on the Outdoor Channel

Posted on January 12, 2025January 12, 2025 by nhfishcop10

Get ready – a new series featuring real game warden stories is coming to the Outdoor Channel! Premiering in the US on Friday, February 14th at 9:30pm EST, Wardens: Case Files will feature game wardens recounting some of their most unforgettable cases, complete with gripping reenactments. I am honored to be the first guest. We sit down with host Randy Nelson and producer Kayla Schoen for a look at this exciting new show. You won’t want to miss it!

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