OPERATION GAME THIEF

Louisiana's program is called Operation Game Thief (O.G.T.) and has been in existence since 1984. O.G.T. is a non-profit corporation, funded and managed by volunteer sportsmen from throughout the state. They meet quarterly to review wildlife violation cases resulting from information provided by program participants and to determine and dispense reward amounts.

The O.G.T. process is fairly simple. If someone witnesses or has information concerning a violation, they should call Operation Game thief's toll-free 24-hour phone line or fill out our NEW online form to report violations. The toll free number is 1-800-442-2511. The information is received by a Wildlife and Fisheries operator and immediately relayed to a wildlife agent who will investigate. A code number is given and the caller's name and phone number are placed on file. There are provisions for callers who wish to remain anonymous.

If the information results in an arrest, the caller is eligible for a cash reward. The amount, determined by the O.G.T. members, is given to a wildlife agent coordinator who makes arrangements with the caller for transfer or delivery of the money. Rewards are based on a scale of a $100 minimum for small game, $300 minimum for big game or illegal selling of game or fish and a maximum of $1,000 for large-scale cases. The scale is used as a guideline. O.G.T. frequently exceeds the minimum based on the agent coordinator's recommendation, the value of the information provided and the effort put forth by the reward recipient.
Since the program began, more than $175,000 in rewards has been paid. Information provided by O.G.T. informants has resulted in the apprehension of more than 700 violators, who were convicted on a multitude of state and federal charges.

Success can be measured in arrests and rewards but other important benefits are more difficult to assess. Is the existence of a reward program a significant deterrent to wildlife criminals? Will we know the actual benefit of increased public awareness of the damage inflicted by outdoor outlaws? Have the cash reward incentives accomplished the original goal of increasing the percentage or reported violations?

These questions may not be answerable beyond speculation. However, those in the law enforcement field are confident that the offer of cash is one of the most effective methods of gaining information. The sportsmen who support O.G.T. in Louisiana, and those who support similar programs in other states, either through volunteer work or financial assistance, can rest assured that they are assisting wildlife officers in the best way possible.

Find out more about how you can become involved in the battle against outdoor outlaws by calling Operation Game Thief. If we are to enjoy wildlife tomorrow, we must stop poaching today.

For more information, please email questions to Lt. Colonel Keith LaCaze at KLaCaze@wlf.louisiana.gov.

REPORT A VIOLATION

In order to successfully apprehend a fish and wildlife violator, we need as much information as possible. Please provide the information requested below and any other information which may be of use to the wildlife enforcement officers investigating this case. Remember, if citations are issued or an arrest is made as a result of information provided, you are eligible for a cash reward. Your identity will be protected. Together we can protect Louisiana's Wildlife for future generations.

You may also report violations at 1-800-442-2511