10 charged in poaching case near Edson

Almost a dozen people face 323 charges under the Wildlife Act after 26 deer, five moose, four elk and a black bear were killed and left to waste near Edson last year.

The animals were found last fall. Suspects were identified after Fish and Wildlife officers asked for tips from the public.

Evidence gathered during the execution of six search warrants was sent to labs operated by Alberta Fish and Wildlife and the RCMP K Division Technological Unit.

Evidence was also sent to a private firearms forensic lab in Saskatchewan.

A total of 10 people were charged.Five were under 18 when some of the alleged offences took place.

The accused will appear in Edson provincial court on Aug. 5.