COLUMBUS, Ohio — A months-long investigation by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) has resulted in dozens of convictions tied to illegal deer processing and wildlife violations in eastern Ohio.
The investigation, led by the ODNR’s ODNR Division of Wildlife and dubbed “Operation Donor Deer,” centered on Rodney Shields, 59, of Harrisville, owner of Rod’s Custom Deer Processing in Harrison County. Authorities said Shields unlawfully sold venison, including meat from legally checked deer that had been donated to benefit local food pantries.
In Harrison County Common Pleas Court, Shields pleaded guilty to seven charges, including felony counts of obstructing justice, theft by deception and illegal sales, along with three misdemeanor theft charges and one misdemeanor count of possessing untagged deer. He was ordered to pay $16,500 in restitution to victims and the Division of Wildlife, received 17 months of suspended jail time and was placed under community control for two years.
The broader investigation led to 35 individuals being convicted on a combined 55 wildlife violations.
Among them, Robert Sliva, 66, of Harrisville, pleaded guilty to three misdemeanor charges: illegal sale of wild animals, failure to maintain accurate records and possession of untagged deer parts. He was fined $500, ordered to pay court costs, placed on probation for one year and sentenced to 30 days in jail, suspended.
Thomas Bibeau, 53, of Deerfield, New Hampshire, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor for improperly completing the state’s game check process. He was fined $500, ordered to pay court costs, placed on one year of probation, and had his hunting license suspended for one year. He also received a 60-day suspended jail sentence.
In total, defendants in the case were assessed $6,313 in fines, eight years of combined hunting license suspensions and 24 months of suspended jail time.
Wildlife officials said public input played a key role in the investigation and encouraged residents to report suspected violations through the Turn in a Poacher hotline at 1-800-POACHER. Reports can be made anonymously, and information leading to a conviction may be eligible for a reward.
The Division of Wildlife enforces Ohio’s wildlife regulations statewide, protecting public lands, waterways and natural resources. Its mission is to conserve and enhance fish and wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainable use and enjoyment by all Ohioans.
