Man Convicted for Poaching Deer at Orofino Elementary School

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In November 2024, security cameras at Orofino Elementary School in Idaho captured a man shooting a white-tailed deer on the school's lawn and later returning to load the deer into his truck. After an investigation, authorities identified the suspect as Lars Nelson of Peck, Idaho. Nelson pled guilty to a misdemeanor charge of taking a deer during a closed season and was sentenced to fines, jail time, probation, and a five-year revocation of his hunting privileges.

Why it matters

Poaching incidents on school grounds raise concerns about public safety and the protection of wildlife. This case highlights the importance of community cooperation and surveillance footage in helping authorities investigate and prosecute wildlife crimes.

The details

On November 26, 2024, security cameras at Orofino Elementary School recorded a blue Ford pickup truck entering the bus loading zone, where an individual shot a white-tailed deer on the school lawn. The vehicle was later seen on multiple security cameras throughout Orofino. Approximately two hours later, the same vehicle returned, and surveillance footage showed a male subject loading the deer into the pickup before leaving again. After reviewing the footage, Idaho Fish and Game officers identified the suspect as Lars Nelson of Peck, Idaho. A search warrant at a residence in Asotin, Washington, where Nelson had been staying, led to the seizure of the suspected vehicle, clothing, and deer parts. Forensic testing confirmed the blood collected matched the blood recovered at the school, but the meat and antlers were never located.

• On November 26, 2024, security cameras captured the incident at Orofino Elementary School.
• In February 2026, Nelson was sentenced for the poaching incident.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Lars Nelson to be released on bail pending his sentencing hearing.