Putnam hunter faces charges after coyote hunting competition

ROCKVILLE -- A 39-year-old Putnam County man is facing multiple charges of hunting and trapping violations after competing in a recent Parke County coyote hunting competition.

Troy Childers of Roachdale, is facing charges including theft (Class A misdemeanor), hunting/trapping without consent of the landowners, and removal of animals from another's trap (all Class C misdemeanors).

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources investigation stemmed from numerous complaints from other hunters during a Feb. 20-22 competition.

Childers took first place at the third annual Coyote Crush hosted in Rockville, the proceeds of which go to benefit the Wounded Warriors Project.

His winnings for the first-place prize included $325 cash.

Coyote hunting competitions are a legal sport with a growing popularity across the state.

"The vast majority of Indiana sportsmen are decent, law-abiding people," Indiana Conservation Officer Lt. Kent Hutchins said. "It is unfortunate when the minority sullies the image of ethical hunters."

Sponsors of the hunt require that contestants follow all hunting and trapping laws while participating.