Oßmaritz, 11.05.2026 – An illegally killed doe was discovered in the hunting grounds near Oßmaritz on Sunday afternoon. The Saale-Holzland-Kreis police have launched an investigation into suspected poaching and are now hoping for information from the public.
- Event: Suspected poaching (dead deer)
- Crime scene: Hunting grounds near Oßmaritz (Saale-Holzland-Kreis)
- Time of discovery: Sunday afternoon
- Witness appeal: Information is being accepted by the Saale-Holzland-Kreis police at 0361 5743-56100 or via email at pi.saale-holzland@polizei.thueringen.de.
Targeted Shot Suggests Experienced Shooter
The animal’s carcass was found on Sunday by the responsible hunting tenant, who immediately alerted the authorities. According to current police findings, the deer was killed by a precise shot and died instantly at the site. Since, according to the hunting tenant, there was no official permit for the shooting of the doe, an investigation into poaching is now underway. The manner in which the shot was fired leads officers to conclude that the unknown perpetrator possesses relevant hunting experience and routine in handling firearms.
Appeal to Walkers and Residents
To solve the incident, the police are dependent on the help of the public. Individuals who observed suspicious vehicles or persons in the area of the Oßmaritz hunting grounds or the adjacent paths are urgently requested to contact the police station.
Background: Poaching is a Serious Criminal Offense
Poaching is not considered a trivial offense in Germany, but is a criminal offense under Section 292 of the Criminal Code (StGB). It is punishable by imprisonment for up to three years or a fine. In particularly serious cases, such as when the act is committed commercially, at night, or during the closed season, the sentence can increase to up to five years in prison. In addition to the criminal aspect, poachers cause significant ecological damage. They disturb the natural balance in the forests and disregard all animal welfare regulations. The region around Oßmaritz, located south of Jena on the Ilm-Saale-Platte, is a valuable retreat for many native wildlife species due to its extensive forests and meadows.
Source:
Police investigate poaching
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