# Wildlife poaching investigations in California > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/wildlife-poaching-investigations-in-california > Updated: 2026-10-03T17:53:35.000Z. Sources: 9. Developments: 2. California authorities have conducted separate investigations into illegal hunting and wildlife poaching across different regions of the state. In Los Angeles County, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) arrested three individuals at Angeles National Park. Following reports of nighttime patrols, officers observed suspects using spotlights to illuminate the forest. A search of the vehicles revealed firearms and two decapitated female deer concealed in trash bags. The suspects allegedly admitted to the illegal killings. In a separate incident in Kern County, a months-long investigation led to the arrest of a Bakersfield resident. During searches of properties in Bakersfield and Stallion Springs, authorities seized 931 black bass, deer antlers, and packages of suspected deer and bear meat. The suspect faces charges including the unlawful possession and take of deer and exceeding daily bag limits for fish and wildlife. Samples have been sent to a forensics lab for DNA analysis. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-03: California authorities arrest suspect in massive wildlife poaching bust A Bakersfield resident faces multiple charges after a California wildlife investigation uncovered 931 black bass, deer antlers, and suspected deer and bear meat during raids in Kern County. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/california-authorities-arrest-suspect-in-massive-wildlife-poaching-bust ### 2026-09-27: Angeles National Park poachers arrested in California Three people were arrested in Angeles National Park after California wildlife officers discovered them with blood on their clothing and headless deer hidden in trash bags. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/angeles-national-park-poachers-arrested-in-california --- Cite as: Wildlife poaching investigations in California. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/wildlife-poaching-investigations-in-california