Kansas Doesn’t Approve Of Airborne Deer Hunting

It’s the biggest fine Kansas has ever levied in a wildlife case -- $104,000 assessed to a hunting guide who used planes to spot and hunt down deer.

Dwight Krebs, 51, of Scott City, not only has to pay the fine, but he’s now on three years’ probation and is banned from hunting or shooting.

Krebs was indicted last March, charged with illegally using an aircraft to harass or kill deer or geese, according to the US Attorney’s office. He pleaded guilty on August 3rd.

The investigation started two years ago when local hunters complained to the Kansas Department of Wildlife Protection.

"They called KDWP [Kansas Department of Wildlife Protection] and complained about a yellow airplane they thought was chasing deer," said US Fish and Wildlife Special Agent Kenny Kessler in an interview with the Wichita Eagle. "They referred the information to us, and we started a joint investigation."

Undercover agents booked hunts on Krebs’ ranch, which sits astride the Logan-Grove County line. They paid $2,500 -- the fee Krebs advertised on the Internet -- for a chance to shoot deer from above.

In addition to the aircraft-related charges, Krebs and his hired guide, Jim Jenkins were accused of illegally using radios and vehicles to hunt deer. Jenkins was also charged with putting a buck shot by one of the undercover agents on his own permit. Both were accused of illegally transporting game across state lines.

Jenkins had to give up his hunting rifle to wildlife authorities and must serve one months’ house arrest.

Agents confiscated Krebs’ 1993 Piper Super Cub. He paid $89,000 in Septemer to get it back. Tuesday, he paid $15,000 restitution.

"I'm glad it's all over,” Krebs told the Eagle after paying the final installment. “It's been a very expensive lesson and a very stressful time. I'm glad to finally put it all behind me and move on."

FMI: www.kdwp.state.ks.us