Former Nebraska hunting guide sentenced for federal wildlife violations

OMAHA — A former Nebraska hunting guide faces years of probation and more than $80,000 in penalties as part of an ongoing crackdown on an illegal hunting operation.

32-year-old Jordan Cook was sentenced in U.S. District Court Tuesday to five years of probation and ordered to pay a $50,000 fine and $39,150 in restitution.  He admitted to six misdemeanor counts of the illegal taking of wildlife in interstate commerce.

The charges stem from an investigation into Hidden Hills Outfitters near Broken Bow.  Owners, guides and clients of the outfitter have been accused of taking deer and turkey within baited areas, from a public road, at night, without a valid permit, in excess of the bag limit and with prohibited weapons.  Cook was also charged with transporting tainted hides and antlers across state lines. To date, 25 people have pleaded guilty and have been ordered to pay more than $240,000 in fines and restitution.