State v. Couch

In this case, the issues before the court are (1) whether nonindigenous, exotic deer, held in private ownership, can be considered “wildlife” as that term is defined in Oregon’s fish and game statutes; and (2) if not, whether the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission (commission) nevertheless possesses the authority to regulate such animals.

The trial court sustained defendant’s demurrer to the district attorney’s information that charged defendant with more than 50 violations of administrative rules related to possessing or hunting certain kinds of nonindigenous deer in Oregon. The trial court…