Turn in a Poacher (TIP) rewards Valparaiso boy

VALPARAISO – Last Friday afternoon, Indiana Conservation Officers in District 10, on behalf of the Indiana Turn in a Poacher (TIP) organization, presented 12-year-old Bridger Strickland of Valparaiso with a $500 reward check for his actions which led to charges being filed against an individual for fish and wildlife violations that occurred in Porter County earlier this year.

Strickland observed violations occurring, documented them, and contacted law enforcement. Using the information gathered by Strickland, Indiana Conservation Officers initiated an investigation that led to the identity of the suspect and charges being filed.

TIP is a non-profit conservation organization that protects our fish and wildlife resources by increasing public support and involvement in bringing violators to justice.

A poacher is a thief who illegally steals wildlife that belongs to each Indiana citizen. Indiana DNR manages wildlife for everyone. Every person can help TIP support DNR’s efforts by reporting potential violations. This will help conserve wildlife for future generations.

Call TIP if you see, hear, or learn about a poacher or another fish and wildlife violation. If your “TIP” leads to an arrest, you may receive as much as a $500 reward, and you can remain anonymous. The phone number for the TIP hotline is 1-800-TIP-IDNR.