New Mexico Operation Game Thief

How do I report violations I see while I'm hunting or fishing?

Call the toll-free hotline for Operation Game Thief: 1-800-432-GAME or the Department of Game and Fish Law Enforcement Division, (505) 476-8132. The toll-free number is printed on your licenses and in various proclamations and publications of the Department of Game and Fish.

What is Operation Game Thief?

1-800-432-GAME - Operation Game Thief is a toll-free poaching hotline that allows you to remain anonymous and earn a reward when reporting game violations. Rewards for arrest of, or charges against, game violators are:

Elk or bighorn sheep	$750
Deer or oryx	$500
Antelope	$350
Turkey, bear, cougar, javelina, ibex, Barbary sheep, endangered species, small game, fish, raptors and furbearers	$250

Of the 237 reports for FY 99, 61 charges were filed against 41 people. A total of $13,275 in penalties was levied, while Operation Game Thief paid out $6,120 in reward money. Of the 237 Operation Game Thief reports, 67 were for deer-related violations; 64 were for spotlighting, residency, trespass, possession of raptors and other similar violations; 55 for elk-related violations; 20 related to small game; 17 for other big-game species; and 14 for violations involving fish.

Eight vehicles were seized by the Department's conservation officers from individuals allegedly hunting with the aid of an artificial light. Of the vehicles, three have been forfeited to the state, three are still pending civil action, one vehicle was adjudicated through the courts, and one vehicle was returned to the owner.