Campbellsport mother, son, charged in large-scale deer and wildlife poaching scheme in several Wisconsin counties

 

CAMPBELLSPORT, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Investigators have now released the name of the Campbellsport woman accused of helping to injure and kill deer in several Wisconsin counties.

Jessica Kroening, 36, is charged with contributing to the delinquency of a child, illegal shining of deer, and obstructing a conservation warden. 

If convicted, she could face multiple years in prison.

Fond du Lac County sheriff's officials said Kroening and three 16-year-old boys shot and killed hundreds of deer within a 200-square-mile radius between last spring and this July, in areas like Waucosta, Theresa, West Bend, Kewaskum, and Lomira. 

On Wednesday, Oct. 23, CBS 58 learned one of the teenagers involved is Kroening's son.

Newly released court documents reveal investigators were first tipped off of a foul odor coming from a garbage bag behind her home.

When they arrived, officials say Kroening denied knowing what was inside or that there was a smell.

But when the bag was opened, authorities found multiple decapitated deer heads that she later admitted "probably" belonged to her son.  

Witnesses, including Kroening's ex-boyfriend, reported that the group would go out to shoot and either seriously harm or kill the deer.

A search inside of her car revealed several bloodied weapons including knives and a saw, with Kroening later handing over two firearms used by the teens.

Authorities also determined the suspects would drive around with the intent of striking deer in the road with their vehicle.

In one instance, officials say the deer survived being struck by their vehicle but was severely wounded from the impact.

The suspects then picked the deer up and placed it in the trunk of their vehicle while recording video and taking “selfies” of and with the deer, officials said.

And in one video, investigators said the suspects were shown holding that deer, still alive but clearly suffering, while walking around the inside of their home.

More evidence obtained also shows the group harassed more wildlife, including geese, raccoons, possums, and turtles. 

Two of the teens appeared in Fond du Lac County court Wednesday morning for brief hearings.

The court told CBS 58 they are unable to release court records and charges since they do not qualify as "serious juvenile offender crimes."

Kroening will make her first court appearance on Dec. 2 at the Washington County Courthouse where she is being charged.