Authorities in Oregon arrested an 18-year-old boy on charges of wildlife harassment and animal abuse after video surfaced of a young adult male riding on the back of an exhausted mule deer buck.
The video shows someone riding the animal within a fenced enclosure. According to the Oregon State Police, the deer struggled, grunted and bleated before getting out from under from the rider but then jumped into a linked fence numerous times trying to get away. The deer did eventually go free but no word on it status.
Authorities identified the primary suspect as Jason Belcher from Riley. Charges may be pending for another suspect accused of filming the incident.
If you witness a wildlife violation or suspicious activity in Oregon, call the TIP Hotline at 1-800-452-7888 or *OSP(677) or send an email to [email protected].
(Photo source: Oregon State Police)