Six Arrested in Major Kentucky Poaching Ring

Suspects charged with hundreds of wildlife violations across Hardin and Grayson counties

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Game wardens with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources have concluded a year-long investigation into a major poaching case involving six people from Grayson and Hardin counties. The group is accused of illegally killing several hundred animals, including deer, turkey, fox and a domestic pet, resulting in 116 criminal charges.

Why it matters

Poaching is a serious crime that can have significant ecological impacts by disrupting wildlife populations. This case highlights the importance of wildlife conservation efforts and the work of game wardens to protect natural resources in Kentucky.

The details

The investigation reached a turning point on July 16, 2024, when game wardens intercepted the group during a traffic stop and discovered multiple firearms, spotlighting equipment, and open alcoholic beverages. Although the suspects initially claimed they were raccoon hunting, no open season for the species was in effect at the time. A subsequent investigation uncovered a coordinated effort to illegally take wildlife across the two counties.

  • On July 16, 2024, game wardens intercepted the group during a traffic stop.
  • The year-long investigation concluded in February 2026.

The players

Allen Sauer

A 21-year-old from Leitchfield, charged with 76 violations, including 52 counts of illegal take of deer/turkey, spotlighting, animal cruelty and unlawful transaction with a minor.

Aden Walker

A 21-year-old from Elizabethtown, charged with illegal take of wildlife, spotlighting and discharging a firearm from a roadway.

Malachi Delatour

An 18-year-old from Leitchfield, charged with illegal take, animal cruelty and unlawful transaction with a minor.

Joshua Stevenson

A 20-year-old from Leitchfield, charged with illegal take and hunting without permission.

Bradley Webb

An 18-year-old from Leitchfield, charged with illegal take and taking wildlife from a vehicle.

Madison Whittington

A 20-year-old from Leitchfield, charged with illegal take of deer/turkey.

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What’s next

The suspects are scheduled to appear in court in the coming weeks to face the charges.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of wildlife conservation efforts and the need for the public to report suspected poaching activity to help game wardens protect natural resources in Kentucky.