A seven-month investigation by game wardens with Kentucky Fish and Wildlife into illegal commercial catfish harvesting resulted in the serving of multiple search warrants Friday.
Operation River Raid was a coordinated statewide enforcement effort on September 12 during which 10 search warrants were executed “from Paducah to Ashland.” The KSP says: “The investigation focused on individuals and entities suspected of violating state law governing commercial fishing and the sale of wildlife.”
KFW says illegally harvesting wildlife poses a threat to Kentucky’s natural resources, harms the economic stability of local communities, and undermines lawful commercial and recreational fishing operations. KFW Director of Law Enforcement Colonel Jeremy McQueary said Operation River Raid demonstrates the department’s commitment to protecting Kentucky rivers and lakes and the people who use them.
KFW says the investigation remains active and ongoing, and more information including names of the people and operations facing charges will be released at a later date. Members of the public with possible information on illegal fishing activity are encouraged to report that information through the Kentucky Wildlife Tipline at 1-800-25-ALERT or through the KFWLaw app.
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