https://knom.org/2024/05/23/bi...in-a-suspended-area/


Big Game Guide Charged With Hunting Brown Bear in a Suspended Area

Ben Townsend
May 23, 2024


Krist Zwerneman, owner and operator of Council Alaska Safaris, is facing multiple charges for allegedly guiding brown bear hunts in suspended areas. The charges are the result of an investigation conducted by Alaska Wildlife Troopers’ Bethel office.

The hunts occurred in GUA 22-04 and 22-05 near Nome. According to the Alaska Department of Public Safety, Zwerneman’s GUA authorization for the areas expired in 2023. The offenses occurred on April 26, April 30, and May 1.

Facing three charges of violating AS08.54.720(a)(5)(B), Zwerneman could potentially receive fines totaling up to $30,000 and up to three years of imprisonment. However, the exact penalties would depend on the court’s discretion.

The 56 year old big game guide from Choteau, Montana is scheduled to be arraigned at the Nome Courthouse May 31 at 10:30 a.m.

Zwerneman has previously been charged in Nome for transfer of game animals or their parts. The case was closed in 2020 with Zwerneman paying a $50 fine.

https://dailydispatch.dps.alas...entNumber=AK24044530



View a Daily Dispatch
Any charges reported in these press releases are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

AK24044530
Location: Nome
Type: Big Game Guiding in Unauthorized Area
Dispatch Text:

On May 10, 2024, AWT Bethel began an investigation into big game guiding occurring in GMU 22. The investigation revealed registered guide-outfitter Krist Zwerneman, age 56 of Choteau, Montana, was the contracting guide on three brown bear hunts. The hunts occurred in Guide Use Areas (GUA) 22-04 and 22-05, in the spring of 2024. Zwerneman's GUA authorization for the areas had expired in 2023. On May 22, 2024, Zwerneman was issued three citations for guiding in an unauthorized guide use area. Arraignment was set for May 31, 2024, in the Nome Court.

Posted on 5/22/2024 11:13:44 AM by DPS\dcbrooks

Posting Section: AK Wildlife Troopers