Ohio hunter ordered to post TikTok apology after poaching conviction

Carter Hickey, a 21-year-old resident of Ohio, has been sentenced following a multi-state investigation into illegal hunting activities spanning nearly 20 states. Hickey pleaded guilty to 17 wildlife crimes, including hunting during closed seasons, hunting without permission, and using a motor vehicle to kill animals.

During the investigation, authorities seized 115 pounds of turkey meat and 47 turkey fans. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service noted that while committing these offenses, Hickey used TikTok to brag about his skills and share false information regarding his activities.

As part of his sentencing, a judge ordered Hickey to post an apology on his TikTok account and write a letter to the City of Dover for trespassing and unlawfully taking a 10-point buck in a public park. His legal penalties include 15 days in jail, two years of community control sanctions, 80 hours of community service, and a five-year revocation of his hunting license.

Financial penalties total over $33,500, consisting of $12,000 in restitution, $5,500 in fines, $11,000 in additional penalties, and a $5,000 contribution to the Ohio Turn In a Poacher program.