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What are Kansas’ Sentencing Guidelines for Wildlife Crimes?
Kansas Wildlife Crime Sentencing Guidelines
Kansas has specific sentencing guidelines for violations of its wildlife and parks laws, or rules and regulations related to hunting and fishing.14 The severity of the sentence depends on the number of prior convictions the offender has. For a first or second conviction of violating wildlife laws, such as taking big game or wild turkey during a closed season or without a proper permit, the offender faces:
- A fine of $500 to $1,000
- Up to 6 months in county jail
- Or both the fine and jail time4
For a third conviction, it becomes a Class B nonperson misdemeanor with:
- A minimum $1,000 fine
- At least 30 days in county jail4
A fourth conviction is a Class A nonperson misdemeanor with:
- A minimum $1,000 fine
- At least 60 days in county jail4
For a fifth or subsequent conviction, it remains a Class A nonperson misdemeanor but with increased penalties:
- A minimum $1,000 fine
- At least 90 days in county jail4
In addition to fines and jail time, the court can revoke or suspend the violator’s hunting, fishing, fur harvester or other applicable licenses and privileges for a set period.4 The stringent penalties, with mandatory minimum jail sentences for repeat offenders, underscore Kansas’ strict stance against poaching and violating hunting regulations designed to conserve its wildlife resources.14