Beech Tree News Network

On April 6, 2024, officers with the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Department issued citations to five out-of-state turkey hunters in Butler County. The incident occurred near Hwy 411, Love Lee Road, on the Bowles Farm.  Among those cited and awaiting arraignment in court is at least one Jasper, Indiana police officer - Kaleb Chambers (DOB 9/11/92, of Huntingbreg, Indiana.

Other citations were issued to:

Joseph Lane Chambers, DOB 3/15/88, of St. Anthony, Indiana

Richard William Chambers, DOB 9/16/63, of English, Indiana

Christopher L. Birk, DOB 4/14-89, of Jasper, Indiana

Jared Michael Gress, DOB 6/26/84, of Jasper, Indiana

According to the citations, the men illegally hunted wild turkeys during Youth Weekend over a baited area. Their arraignments are set for May 15 at the Butler County Courthouse.

According to a report from 14 News WFIE-Evansville, two Jasper Police Officers are awaiting arraignment in Butler County, Kentucky, stemming from the April 6 incident.  The identity of the second officer has not been confirmed.

Jasper Police Chief Nathan Schmitt released the following statement to 14 News WFIE-Evansville:  

"The City understands the importance of transparency and cooperation in such matters. The Jasper Police Department is aware of an incident involving two city officers who were claimed to be turkey hunting in Kentucky. The JPD reached out to the Butler County, Kentucky prosecutor several times and we are waiting to hear back. Our priority remains ensuring the well-being and safety of our community and employees. Rest assured, the City will continue to monitor the situation closely and we will take appropriate action when deemed necessary."