FWC officers arrest two for roadside nighttime deer poaching in Walton County

On August 10, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officers responded to a request for assistance from the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office after a deputy discovered an individual sleeping in a truck. The bed of the truck, as well as the individual, appeared to be covered in deer blood, and deer hair was observed in the truck bed.

Upon arrival, FWC officers interviewed Jack Nowling (DOB 11-08-1990) of DeFuniak Springs, who admitted to driving a friend to shine a light for deer at night along Highway 81 in Walton County. He stated his friend shot a deer, which was placed in the back of his truck, and that he assisted in processing the animal and disposing of the carcass.

Officers then interviewed Charles Walker (DOB 03-14-1994) of Ponce De Leon at his residence. He admitted to killing the deer at night along Highway 81 in Walton County. Officers located deer meat in a cooler at his home and the shotgun used in his truck.

The deer carcass was later found near Highway 81, bearing shotgun damage consistent with both individuals’ statements.

Both Nowling and Walker were charged with taking a deer at night with a gun and light, as well as taking wildlife from the right of way of a publicly maintained road.