The Office of Law Enforcement is composed of special agents, wildlife inspectors, intelligence analysts, forensic scientists, information technology specialists, and support staff who investigate wildlife crimes, regulate the wildlife trade, help the public understand and obey wildlife protections laws, and work in partnership with international, federal, state, local, and Tribal counterparts to conserve wildlife resources.

Latest Stories and Topics

Stories
Dr. Tabitha Viner performs a wildlife necropsy.
Our People
Forensic Scientist Featured in International Publication
The work of Dr. Tabitha Viner, a wildlife forensic pathologist at the Service’s National Fish and Wildlife Forensics Lab, was featured in a Sierra article. In it, she explains her fascinating work that contributes to California condor conservation.
Display of illegally imported animal skulls.
Wildlife Crime
Ex-Biology Professor Sentenced for Wildlife Crime
Dr. Richard Kazmaier was sentenced to six months in prison, three years of post-release supervision, and fined $5,000 for buying and importing protected wildlife into the United States without declaring or obtaining the required permits.
Display of boots that made from and trimmed with protected species such as elephant, python, and crocodile..
Wildlife Crime
Trafficking Sentenced for Selling Illegal Exotic Wildlife Products
Jose A. Der Jr. was sentenced to two years of probation and fined $10,000 for knowingly selling and shipping custom-made equestrian riding boots that were made with protected wildlife skins. The total value of the trafficked wildlife products is $129,361.  This investigation was worked jointly...
A black rhinoceros in the wild
Wildlife Crime
Wildlife Trafficker Sentenced to 57 Months
Guinea citizen Amara Cherif was sentenced to serve 57 months in U.S. federal prison for conspiring to traffic in millions of dollars in rhinoceros horns and elephant ivory, both parts of endangered wildlife species.
Carolina Wren holding onto a tree trunk and looking out at snow
Get Involved
Holiday gifts that give to wildlife
Tackle your holiday shopping and get a jumpstart on a happy New Year with our guide to gifts that help support fish, wildlife and their habitats.
A turtle crouches on the forest floor
Wildlife Crime
Joining forces to combat turtle trafficking
Illegal turtle trade is a growing problem with far-reaching consequences for wild populations. Partners are joining forces to combat this threat.
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Our Library

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Visit our Libraries for documents such as Public Bulletins, Annual Reports, and fact sheets related to Commercial Wildlife Trade, Personal Wildlife Trade and more!

Office of Law Enforcement Updates and New Additions

OLE Public Bulletin - Appendix III P. phorbanta 02-20-2023

OLE Public Bulletin - Appendix III D. palaestinae 02-21-2023

OLE Public Bulletin - Wild Bird Conservation Act (WBCA) and Bird Parts 02-08- 2023

 

Work With Us

You can help save wildlife and stop wildlife crime because it can happen in areas close to home such as at your local park or even on your own property. Many of our investigations were solved, and criminals were fined or went to jail, because people like you reported unlawful activities.  If you have knowledge of a wildlife crime, please contact us or your local or state game warden.  If your tip leads to an arrest, or other substantial action, you may receive a financial reward.

If you believe you are witnessing a wildlife crime, keep a safe distance and never attempt to stop the crime yourself. If you find yourself in danger, call 911.

Report a wildlife crime

Rewards Program:
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is authorized to pay rewards for information or assistance that leads to an arrest, a criminal conviction, civil penalty assessment, or forfeiture of seized property. Payment of rewards is the discretion of the Service and is linked to specific federal wildlife laws. The amount of any reward we may pay is commensurate with the information or assistance received. Please discuss the possibility of receiving a reward with the Service personnel receiving your information or assistance.