Taxidermists Linked in Idaho Trophy Poaching Scandal: Father-Son Business Charged
Schiermeier Taxidermist Studio built a reputation over 40 years in southern Idaho for producing lifelike mounts and sought-after taxidermy work. The duo is now accused of accepting orders for trophy mounts of 43 animals taken illegally, and failing to maintain the required records. During a search of their business, investigators discovered intake forms and documents linked to the poaching case hidden in a filing cabinet.
Tom Schiermeier faces eight charges, including two felonies. Prosecutors charged his son, Ryan, with one felony for destroying and preparing false evidence, along with seven misdemeanors.
The court scheduled both men to appear for preliminary hearings on May 9.
The taxidermists' charges are linked to a broader investigation of Karl W. Studer, a 43-year-old resident of Rupert, Idaho. Studer is facing a total of 20 charges stemming from a comprehensive investigation by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. The charges include five felonies and 15 misdemeanors related to various wildlife violations.
Unlawful possession of wildlife
Unlawful killing or wasting of wildlife (multiple counts)
Molesting game animals or birds with a motorized vehicle or unmanned aircraft
Hunting to spot or communicate the location of wildlife from an aircraft
Interfering with hunting, fishing, and predator control
Criminal solicitation to commit a crime
Outfitting and guiding without a license
The investigation revealed that Studer allegedly hired a helicopter pilot to scout and harass wildlife, disrupting other hunters and violating state laws. He is also accused of purchasing and reselling Landowner Appreciation Program (LAP) tags, which are nontransferable and illegal to sell.
Court documents indicate that Studer spent over $150,000 acquiring these tags.
Additional allegations include the unlawful killing of multiple elk, exceeding legal bag limits, and the illegal possession of a live, wounded pronghorn antelope. Investigators used cellphone location data, text messages, and helicopter flight records to support the charges.
Studer's preliminary hearing is scheduled to take place in September 2025. If convicted, he could face significant fines, imprisonment, and the suspension of his hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses.
GearJunkie reached out to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, but representatives declined to comment.
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