Wakarusa Man Sentenced to 2 Years of Probation

SOUTH BEND - Dylan Nissley, 32 years old, of Wakarusa, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to three misdemeanor Lacey Act violations, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor.

Nissley was sentenced to a term of probation of 2 years, which includes a universal fishing and hunting ban for the entire probation period, and 144 hours of community service.

According to documents in the case, during the spring of 2023, Nissley offered unlawful guided fishing trips in Lake Erie, Ohio. At the time of the trips, Nissley did not possess a valid United States Coast Guard Captain License or a valid fishing guide license. He also allowed individuals to "double bag" and catch and keep several more walleye than allowed by the legal bag limit. Nissley also violated the Lacey Act in November 2023 during the archery-only portion of the Missouri hunting season. Nissley killed a buck with a firearm, failed to report all the deer he harvested, and took more than two antlered deer during the season.

"True sportsmen and sportswomen understand that the North American model of wildlife conservation depends upon everyone-and especially guides-following the relevant laws and regulations when harvesting game," announced Acting U.S. Attorney Proctor. "Dylan Nissley disregarded those rules, and in doing so he violated the federal Lacey Act. Thanks to the hard work of our law enforcement team, he has been held to account for his unlawful acts."

"Poaching has no place in America's hunting and fishing heritage," said Assistant Director Douglas Ault of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement. "We appreciate the strong support from our partners in Indiana, Ohio, Missouri, and the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service. This case is a reminder for all hunters and anglers to be diligent when selecting guiding services and ensure you're working with someone who complies with the law and honors the ethical principles of the outdoors."

This case was investigated by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service with assistance from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, United States Coast Guard Investigative Service, and Missouri Department of Conservation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lydia T. Lucius.