Update On The Alleged Walleye Tournament Cheaters

[@TerryBattisti1]

Randy, it's not just a slap on the wrist... It's a slap in our faces.

[@miked8249]

This is the criminal penalty. A year in jail is not nothing. Civil lawsuits will take care of financial art of it. By the time they are finished they will be broke

[@Canucks44219]

Oh no poor baby got slapped in the face. I'm pretty sure I'd rather be slapped than impaled with a hook and drowned for fun but you have zero issues with that but are crying about a metaphorical slap lol

[@jlambe19]

Don't like it, change the law. Look, it is a rare scenario and not many laws are in place to address it. The lifetime ban of fishing in Ohio is pretty good though.

[@aCountryVegan]

Pretty standard for misdemeanor attempted grand theft actually, although I agree the fine should be a little more. Most likely get plead down and wont serve any time in actual jail. For misdemeanor convictions of grand theft, a court may sentence you to one year in jail. Felony convictions for grand theft can last much longer. In cases where a theft involved incredibly valuable property or where the person convicted is a repeat offender, a prison sentence of 5 to 20 years or more may be possible

[@franciscahazlet4021]

I feel just like you. It is not enough. I also believe that since there boats and tackle was used in the crime it should be sold off as well and used for conservation education and betterment.

[@davidliske1959]

They should get minimum of 5 years each for fraud. Pay back the money they stole

[@jasonemeric9902]

That's a good one. Even with just illegal intent of use of a legal item qualifies that item for confiscation.

[@jakeporter8476]

Boat probably has a lien on it. Changes this as far a selling stuff

[@allibani]

@@jakeporter8476 if you think the government cares about a lien your very wrong when they seize items they hardly ever release them until police auction

[@JT_70]

@@jakeporter8476 Didn’t they win the boat in a previous tourney?

[@TaterChip91]

One other perspective that I think needs to be mentioned that I've not heard anyone bring up....now I don't know what the schedule was like when they were doing this. But I can tell you this from my experience. I rodeo alot and am constantly traveling in the spring and summer months. And no matter what association I happen to be riding in on any given day, I see the same guys week in and week out. I don't travel with them but they are chasing the same thing as I am. And eventually, you form a friendship with everyone. Just because you are around them so much. These guys have to be in a similar situation. They have to have had conversations with the other fishermen at some point. At the weigh ins, before or after tournaments, even during the tournaments itself. They undoubtedly made friends with the other guys...and through everything they looked them in the eye and straight lied to them. Eagerly, intentionally, and without doubt rehearsal of what they would say. They stole so much from everyone else, and did it with a smile on their face. That's a whole other level of low when you look at it that way

[@DeathByFishing]

To be honest, fishermen in clubs are like that, but in tournaments no. Fishermen might be friendly in a restaurant or bar, but on the water we are competing and rude. Some fishermen are downright mean. Especially if you approach one of thier honey holes.

[@LonewolfJesseJames506]

Jeez, I've accidentally gut hooked a bass and it died on my watch and I felt horrible. I couldn't imagine, these guys are sick and twisted. We all need to have respect for our wildlife and our fisheries so that the next generation of young anglers like my 2 boys and all of the kids out there can enjoy the same things that we all enjoy, If they choose to.

[@Canucks44219]

This comment is so hypocritical, if you valued the fish you wouldn't fish for sport it's just that simple. I don't think they enjoy it, would u enjoy a hook and being drowned for fun, for sport? And by your comment death. You say you care about fish when reality is fish HATE you guys, you are their enemies. Not humans in general JUST ANGLERS. So you "caring" that the fish died is pure hypocrisy, your actions prove this cause you are impaling them (implement of any animal can certainly easily lead to death) over and over again for your own joy. It's pretty simple you can't go around impaling living creatures and then be sad one died, that is called ignorance.

[@WesV]

@@Canucks44219 do you eat anything that is commercially farmed?

[@thezarn2058]

@@Canucks44219 It's called a barbless hook. I'm sure when I catch a fish with another one lodged in it's throat from having the dorsal fins stuck it's thinking "Damn this hook really hurts." Who ties your shoes each morning?

[@sk8fyshbyk923]

same

[@LonewolfJesseJames506]

@@Canucks44219 I wasn't even gonna reply to you, because others already have..do you know how many fish I've killed on a catch and release? 1 because it was an aggressive spawning bass and It inhaled my lipless. I fish legally in accordance with my local conservation laws and I know what I'm doing, unfortunately accidents happen so before you speak on someone's comment, pls make sure you do the research necessary.

[@stanleychestnut9201]

No matter what they get hopefully the big publicity of this plays a big part in detouring others from things like this. Also this goes for the tournament directors as well, none of this type of things needs swept under the rug no matter how big or small the organization.

[@ldld2311]

Or it might give other dishonest fisherman ideas

[@crashalexander7232]

@@ldld2311 lol they already got plenty ideas ....been fishing for 45 years and seen it all ...fish caught in other lakes and brought in is the most prevalent rule broken specially in ice fishing contest. and thats just the small cheats!

[@ldld2311]

Yeah you got a good point I've never fished a tournament I've heard a few stories I've been hunting and fishing for for quite a few years just to have fish fry's and meat in the freeer.i sure would like to get into a crappie tournament probably cause they're my favorite fish to eat.never been walleye fishing sure would like to try it.i heard that's a better eating fish than crappie.had it in a few bars that called it walleye.but here in Illinois it's illegal to sell game fish Ike that so everyone says they're Alaskan whitefish but still good though

[@RealMitchRapp]

I said they should lose everything and someone told me i was sick for wishing that on them….. I said “I don’t wish it on them, I pray thats what happens”…. We all know there are anglers out there who have sacrificed everything hoping for that one big win, maybe even one big check to help their sick kid, who knows but that person may have been standing beside these two glory holes at one point; at the time not knowing they were filthy dirty. EARN WHAT YOU WANT! Period!

[@RichM0410]

Whoever said you were sick for wishing it upon them needs to be up to speed on the situation. They clearly should think before speaking. I agree with you.

[@semosancus5506]

If you are gambling to pay your kids medical bills, I'd suggest a different approach.

[@crashalexander7232]

@@semosancus5506 yes it seems one could do better than this....

[@RealMitchRapp]

@@semosancus5506 that’s my point. Most people wouldn’t take that approach but there are those doing anything they can for $$. It was a weak example but one nonetheless

[@rick4649]

I agree, the financial punishment doesn’t seem to fit the crime but with our legal system today they might not even be convicted. The other question is how many others have done this type of stuff and were never caught. Also, what do you do to clean it up?

[@WashburnJ56]

You can't fix corruption :(

[@smerchly]

SO , they call it cheating ??? Lets call it what it is ...It is fraud and robbery ! We have so much fraud in this country the courts don't want to deal with it . So , WE will have to start dealing with it and other issues ourselves ! Our courts are useless.

[@crashalexander7232]

metal detectors and signed waivers stating you will pay x $ if caught cheating.

[@smerchly]

@@crashalexander7232 Newest update said they are pleading not guilty as the crown can't prove they put the lead in the fish . Don't be surprised if they walk free , typical Canadian ex-justice system at work .

[@erniebrightfishing]

From what I've read here in local papers and news (live in Ohio) they're facing 3 felony charges and one misdemeanor charge. Now if that's the case each charge is up to one year. For a total of 3 years. And the misdemeanor is like 6 months I think. I could be wrong tho.

[@erichildreth7562]

I am in Ohio too and I saw this same thing.

[@lamebritishman1]

3 years if they run consecutively, but it would most likely run concurrently.

[@dennisalbertson6032]

Attempted grand theft- more than 20k less than 100k..cheating, possessing criminal tools and unlawful ownership of wild animals.. boat and trailer have been confiscated as welll

[@brucedyda3518]

One of the charges is having tools(tackle box pliers) and the second is the wildlife charge (fish filets)

[@drewferd2720]

This gives everyone else an incentive to cheat. That’s ridiculous, they need to make an example out of these two

[@JoshSees]

The tournament association should sue them in civil court for triple what they attempted to steal plus legal fees. Civil court is way different than criminal court.

[@genocordova8995]

Absolutely!!

[@ffemtx4]

Hear, hear!!! Maybe even the participants that ended up in 2nd place to these two in every tournament in which they'd fished against them.

[@rcandy4u]

Yea right I finished 2nd behind Mike Long a few times Actually one time at Otay reservoir the weights were 1/100 apart & eventually the director even changed the weights by a 1/4 pound on the website to make that fool look better Go figure

[@carloscruz7317]

i love that even though we saw with our own eyes we still have to say alleged. that irritates me so much

[@brianmcclung7550]

100% agree sir!!!! That’s a slap on the wrist! 2500$??? I heard they had won over 3 million in earnings the past couple years! They should at least have to repay that! Agree about prison, not sure how I fell about that! Anyway Randy I completely agree with your take on this! Brian in SC

[@lsmith6211]

Those guys had no concern for any one else who put up their entry fee to compete and fish hard during the tournament, they had no feelings for theft . there's an old saying don't do the crime if you can't do the time, they really need to do the time.

[@tylerscarpinato3354]

Great references, And your absolutely correct. I think they should have some serious civil services break their backs after a couple years in prison. On top of license suspension etc. And revoke all their earnings from past tournaments

[@rkr7372]

I agree, we also need to realize criminals are sentenced according to the laws on book. My daughter in law’s mom was killed when a crackhead ran a stop sign & literally ripped the front clip of her car, I’m sure what the crime was exactly but he got 7 to 10 years for basically what was murder, the judge made it clear by saying, “ if I had my way you’d never walk a public street again, I have to go by law no matter how pathetic the law may be”. To his credit he did mention how to go about lobbying to have it changed.

[@bassman6211]

These guys stole more than 60 times the amount of the average bank robbery. Like you said Randythere are guys doing really long prison sentences for MUCH LESS. Where's the deterrent to keep people from cheating like this again? Our justice system is flawed beyond belief

[@smerchly]

There is no "justice" system these days , it's a "legal" system where repeat offenders keep the wheels of the court system greased .

[@anthonyvella2787]

Yes this cannot be taught as ok, or slap on the wrist

[@drinkthekoolaidkids]

That's because robbing a bank is stealing from the federal government , stealing from a fishing tournament ..... is seen as no big deal ...... Legally

[@smerchly]

@@drinkthekoolaidkids So , since we now have a social media , it's up to us to denounce these theives and make their faces well known .

[@drinkthekoolaidkids]

@@smerchly true ....

[@jrsher]

Not enough!! Crime isn't supposed to pay. This sentence is certainly not a deterrent.

[@meef1610]

Thanks Randy. Been while since Ive been on here. Nice to hear your voice again and hope you are well!!

[@johnagen3688]

It would be interesting to see video of them and their fish and their body language of them on stage from past tourneys!

[@davecfishing7907]

they got pics clearly looks stuffed now

[@outermonologue645]

Personally, I think everybody who received second-place in third place in any of the tournaments behind them, should be able to sue them in civil court for the difference plus penalties and lawyers please. When everything is said and done these guys should be able to rub to lead fishing weights together.

[@ffemtx4]

You've beat me to this comment!!! I've been saying the same thing since the news broke on this story. I also believe that their sponsors should bring them to civil court.

[@donm565]

I don't see anyone mention that this may have been going on for years by these 2 criminals, I know this is the first time they were caught but how many tournaments did they win, then get the prize money and other items ,cheating others out of a fair win and prizes The sponsors should be also suing these guys for making them look bad, The 2500 dollar fine is ridiculous and so is the year in jail, With good behavior that's 6 months in jail. I think the state should say this is a exceptional case and a minimum of 10 years in jail and 100,000 fine will be the minimum sentence, This current slap on the wrist will not detour future cheaters and is a slap in the face of fellow fisherman. I also think a lifetime ban on any fishing would be appropriate, I have a friend who was caught fishing with no license, was selling the fish locally to get by and was 80 years old , he got a lifetime fishing ban for selling fish for extra money to just sustain him self

[@astrophysicistguy]

I would suspect there will be civil suits as well and things are very different in civil court. Hopefully Ranger and their other big sponsors will go after them to set an example … I would suspect at the very least they will lose their sponsors

[@davidmahanna94]

Thanks for the update. Indefinite use to mean forever is this type of situation but you're right who knows anymore. In terms of the monetary fines my opinion is to go back and take any and all prize money, boats, any sponsor money used , make them pay it back then throw a hefty fine. Suspension of anything related to the fishing industry. Jail time.....mixed feelings on this one. If they would do what I've mentioned above, name a law after them so they are never forgotten or better yet use their names name to define a rule in the professional fishing arena against cheating. Something lasting with their name attached . Probation for 5 years.

[@tfishing8320]

First, the legal system isn't (and shouldn't be) responsible for rectifying weak or ineffective oversight and control by tournament directors / organizations. Second - the men in question lost their boats, tackle, etc. - lots of money gone with no ability to recoup. Won't be fishing anywhere unless out of Ohio - notoriety should keep them out of competitive events elsewhere for a long time. Third - prior period winnings = impossible to prove - speculation is not evidence. Fourth - no prize money collected from the event where the offenses occurred, so no theft or other monetary loss. A lot of strong emotional response within the fishing community, but not a lot of chargeable offenses. Fourth - perspective - while a lot of press coverage and emotional reaction in the fishing community, consider the bigger picture. A single instance of cheating is a still single instance in a universe of competitive events. Out of all the attention paid to this instance, perhaps the most significant improvement should / may be less chance of similar incidents in the future.

[@joshuamorgan177]

Randy you're absolutely right I think prison in this case is a little extreme, they do need to be punished. And that's why I think that not only should they lose all their fishing privileges, I mean those two should never be able to pick up a fishing rod again in their lives. But also they should have to spend however long it takes them to pay back all the money that they have potentially stolen over the years by cheating, because obviously this isn't the first time they've done this.

[@burdettehoeppner1062]

Thanks for the update. They should be fined mimimum $50,000. They should have a probation of + 10 years where they cant fish in any state. They should have 100 hours of community service where they help DNR or bass clubs with fish projects. They should address the media with an apology. They should lose fishing privaleges of there home state for ever. They are not allowed to fish any money tournaments in any state for the rest of there life. They should have 100 hours where they give presentations to school classes on why its wrong to cheat. Required to see a psychologist for 25 sessions to address there criminal thinking that lead to the cheating. This is all for now.

[@Riveloperinc]

Making money by swindling others is considered savvy, unless you are caught. So the penalties are often low, because the lawmakers who write them are guilty of most.

[@casac86]

Randy enjoy your content. But reality is they will plea down minimum fine, no fishing privileges, and most likely no time served. And then one of them will sue LEWT for emotional stress that they can't go anywhere without being verbally attacked so on. The bigger concern would the lack of accountability then. Everyone is about preserving nature and it's resources until it comes time to do it.

[@mjheck2140]

A couple quick thoughts about the legal system. They were caught cheating at one tournament, they were caught before they received any payout money. They did have equipment confiscated (more than likely they will not get it back). Hopefully they will get their fishing license suspended indefinitely.

[@mikecollett8513]

Don't think they had to actually have the payout in hand to consider it as received. They were called out as the team to beat on stage so technically, when no one bettered their weight, consequently, it could be assumed they won. Agree with the confiscation. Man get caught foul hooking a fish during the Maumee river spring run. ODNR popping out of the bushes like Ninja!

[@pneumans]

@@mikecollett8513 they were the last team to weigh in since they were season leaders. They were announced as the winner

[@mikecollett8513]

@@pneumans Thanks. If they were announce as winners to the group then it could be argued it initiated receiving the winnings, Not a lawyer. A little curious how this shakes out once the dust settles. What seems like a slam dunk to non lawyers doesn't always pan out. All the best

[@mjheck2140]

I’m pretty sure the Attempted Grand Theft charge is because they attempted to gain the money for winning but did not receive the money, because they were caught before any money changed hands. The public embarrassment will go with them for years, I really hope they forfeit their boat, trailer, gear, truck(?) and have their fishing licenses revoked for life. What a roll model for their family and kids.

[@mjheck2140]

Role model (not roll). 😅

[@photudiodan4648]

I imagine that there is already lawyers contacting some of these other competitors that have been cheated. A class action civil suit, (I think it is civil or something where there is less standard of proof?) would be the best way to make these thieves pay. Like that father did and is doing to OJ.

[@brockbowers2646]

Idk what the final tallies were but i found it crazy, but would they have not actually won that thing without the weights?

[@clintonjerkovich7633]

I haven't followed this passionately but I have watched the initial video when they were caught & I swear I heard a person or 2 saying "they've been cheating/they finally got caught" etc., & though it would be very difficult to prove, I think there's plenty of circumstantial evidence to support the idea that they have done this before & made substantial earnings from it. To me, that is an aggravating legal factor that should increase their charges/potential sentence by itself. Their blatant dishonesty, the amount they stood to win & the fact that they've been winning tournaments for years speaks volumes to support this I believe.

[@interminablyperplexed4903]

They will be in some sort of civil litigation for years tying up their time, resources/funds and energy. If just a few of the larger companies and organizations involved want to keep them in court for years they can. The number of associated problems affecting businesses, brands, reputations, revenue and losses are many. There's some amount of satisfaction to be had in that probability.

[@NeilGraham.I.M.F]

I am 20 mi south of Hermitage so it's weird every time I hear somebody say it. And the potential punishment is bogus. Because potential is the key word. Like you said they never get the full extent

[@eddieward5777]

if you look at this as just one incident. the punishment is normal and right. while we all know this the only one time they got caught. how many times they got away with it. that's what everyone is upset about, but it has to be proven in court. i too wish they would get the book thrown at them as much as anyone else.

[@susans2463]

Could not agree with you more Randy..if that happens "It will be a slap in the face" They should have to pay back ALL their so called winnings and at least 7 to 10 years in jail AND no fishing license at all. Who would ever trust them ???😡

[@tonyhudson8698]

New Zealand is following this, and 1 the fishing gear should be auctioned off. 2 a heavy, fine 100.000 min. Banned from fishing. As to jail time??? I hope so, but can't see it happening. Cheers to all.

[@anthonyvella2787]

I agree, AND I really would like a game warden to respond, if any on this channel. Randy u might have to make some calls..... But what is the normal penalty for cruelty to animals ? Not sure what the book says, but without reading that section.... I would hope there's something.

[@anthonyvella2787]

They weren't charged with this, and I'm very curious why NOT ?

[@LearningFast]

They will lose their sponsors and that will cost them a lot. They could also seize their boat($100k+) permanently under asset forfeiture. A year in prison won’t be fun for these guys. It isn’t enough but it is better than nothing.

[@muskylounge]

I say probably fines, court costs and probation is what they get. I couldn’t tell by the pictures. What model ranger was that 621??620?? 622? Or something else.

[@johnneill5960]

Screw those guys . Me & my teammate just won the Local Branson Vets annual trout tournament & the one thing I did not have to worry about is cheaters . It’s for a charity so I gave the winnings right back to the charity . I fish because it’s enjoyable but I also like to compete because that makes it even more fun to me , but when some shit bag(s) do crap like this it tarnishes the whole thing .

[@mikehoncho658]

Tbh as someone who has experience working in the court system I guarantee they will hire a good lawyer and get off completely, or a small fine and they will get off like a speeding ticket. Their lawyer can argue that the public ridicule was a sufficient punishment

[@obcaudle4340]

Problem with the loss of license is it will probably only apply to Ohio. I'd say they could fish anywhere else in the country

[@deanbheffelfinger2829]

Your 100 percent correct.

[@elkhunter8664]

Nope. The 'Interstate Wildlife Violators Pact " ensures a judgement in Ohio applies in 48 other states who have signed the pact. The last I looked, Massachusetts is the only state that has not joined.

[@johnfeldkamp1729]

The big finical penalty’s with things like this usually come from civil suits. After the state is done I would hope the tournament goes after them in civil court, especially if the are criminally convicted. I don’t believe a long jail sentence is due, they will lose their livelihood as career fisherman ( cheats), and the ability to fish. To wear that shame in public is plenty without wasting any of our tax money.

[@brucedyda3518]

who are the victims??? and can you prove it? They can say that everybody does it and without cutting open ALL the fish , there is no proof that others dont do it also

[@Dafarish1]

I feel like it’s not enough. I hope they make an example of them.

[@mikesmith2220]

Bring on the sponsorship lawsuits and hopefully that will cripple their bank accounts

[@captnse]

The prison sentencing is a touchy topic for these walleye anglers…..but I’d be in favor of a lifetime ban on all tournaments for these guys, a stout fine in the thousands, and community service for the department of fish and game….I’ve seen so many anglers cheat (i.e. poach) the system here in CA over the years and never get caught.

[@bucknuts8824]

I agree. I dont know about jail time. But they need to pay back everything 10 fold, and never allowed to fish again

[@jimpalmer7714]

They are only subject to the punishments according to the law at the time of the offense. The punishment won't fit the crime, but we don't get to pick what we think should happen to them. What can happen is the laws can be changed to have more severe penalties for future offenses.

[@wiscocoaltrain1955]

That's really sad. This should be a way harsher punishment! They should've added animal cruelty to the charges.

[@lendallmorris9803]

Doesn’t every contestant in that tournament with them, have a civil suit against them as attempting to steal from them? Just curious

[@kinjunranger140]

You can't possibly be serious.

[@hTIG]

They never collected any money in this tournament. So, No.

[@brucedyda3518]

a civil suit is a private matter and you have to prove (with evidence and not speculation or hearsay) that you suffered a financial loss. Just the attorney fees can be more than the prize money itself

[@danlaur7973]

Don't forget Randy that those 2 clowns will never fish again in any tournament atmosphere & they did not actually have the prize money in their possession at that tournament

[@donDiegoEstebanMgLKenNDJohnson]

ODNR is stretching just to put that misdemeanor charge in play over the walleye fillets. First, and foremost, they need to establish the origins of the walleye which they simply cannot do.

[@Diesel.Trucker67]

Can you explain what the fillets mean? I saw in the original video when the fish was cut and the guy talked about the fillets. I'm not into fishing and that part confused me. Thanks 🙂

[@donDiegoEstebanMgLKenNDJohnson]

@@Diesel.Trucker67 I'm not quite certain what your question is. If you're asking the likely scenario it is as follows: The two anglers bagged more than the daily limit, at some point the then skinned and filleted the excess catch and stuffed the fillets from said excess along with lead sinkers down the gullets of what they indeed turned in as their daily catch bag for official weigh-in. Since they are only facing one charge each and not two for unlawful ownership of wild animals, I can only assume ODNR figured there were two additional fish taken which were skinned and filleted which would make a total daily catch of 7 walleyes (an excess of one walleye under Ohio Administrative Code). However, if tried in a criminal court, ODNR would still need to prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, the fish that were filleted were in fact taken during the tournament on that day, which would indeed put them over the daily limit of 6. More or less, they are facing one count each for poaching.

[@eberd.c4644]

GIVE ME THEIR BOATS‼️, I’ll make sure I’m an honorable angler with them. The boat deserves honorable an angler.

[@madmullets]

I live down the road from One of the guys and would drive past their Boats from time to time and dream about owning such a nice rig. Im pretty sure one of the boats is worth over 100k and the Tow rig at least 70k. I hope PA bans them from ever holding a fishing or hunting permits for life.

[@IcallBS509]

In 2021 according to Walleye Federation DOTCOM, Chase and Jacob finished 11th in the TOY Final Standings for the year. What's interesting is they have the large fish most tournaments, and the 2nd largest of the entire year. THAT being said........they had 7 events, caught 30 fish for 170.45 pounds the largest being 11.30#..................The 1st Place Team for the year HAD 6 Events, caught 30 fish FOR 201.72 POUNDS (Ryan & Cole). Maybe we should be investigating some other folks too??

[@joemedvec2248]

I really dont think prison is what they deserve. But i do agree with way higher fines for what they basically stole. My thought is they probably going to end up making way more money from netflix or something with all this publicity. I just about guarantee someone going to make a documentary on this and they make a ton of money. That’s just my thoughts

[@deanbheffelfinger2829]

I agee and it sickening to know your right.

[@lshrock7789]

No fishing privilege for 5 years and a 20k fine and no contest or record's for a lifetime. A permanent fishing ban is something I couldn't give. Unless repeated.

[@mx500a4]

That's brutal, permanent loss of fishing rights would make me go crazy.

[@repairmanjeff]

I would love to see them get a more harsh punishment. That being said realistically they were legally fishing in a tournament but committed fraud unfortunately with a good lawyer they’ll plea it down to that or less and walk away probably not much more than a fine and a legal bill. I’m certain the only reason they have the additional charges is due to the publicity of it all. The potential bright side here is that they’ll most likely get sued for breach of contract by their sponsors and no professional fishing groups will want to associate with them ever again

[@doster59]

One thing in favor of the prosecution is the high profile nature of the case and the overwhelming video evidence. My guess is the prosecutor will threaten them with the longest prison sentence possible and then offer probation if they fess up to the alleged other cheating offenses which would in turn make them pay restitution. That's where they will feel the pain, not in the fines. Probably lose the boat and gear too along with a long suspension of fishing privileges and lifetime ban on tournament fishing. I would also guess their lawyers know the court is probably going to have to make an example out of these two. Since Ohio allows cameras in the courtroom, we'll be able to watch as they break down in tears, acting remorseful before sentencing.

[@mikehoneycutt5686]

I hope the various tournament organizations coordinate blacklisting these crooks. Even if their current state suspends their license for life, that won't keep them from crossing state lines and buying a license in an adjacent state. In Arkansas they can confiscate all of your equipment for fishing/hunting without a license, with the price of a truck, boat, 4 wheeler, etc. you could be looking at a $150,000 forfeiture. A $2500 fine is crazy low. I am guessing this is being handled as a misdemeanor, but their attempt to steal that much money should be qualify for felony charges.

[@danielgreen2574]

As years go by people don't really get punished enough for cheating, poaching,or breaking any rules for fishing or hunting, you can watch the tv shows and see how people get off,new world now and it ain't going right.

[@mikecollett8513]

A little digging into Ohio law. Looks like we only give a third degree misdemeanor to first time offenders (don't know if they have a record). BUT, law makers have been turning up the heat the last decade or so. Ohio Section 1533.99 references, fine, term of imprisonment, seizure, and forfeiture imposed, to make restitution for the minimum value of the wild animal or animals illegally held, taken, or possessed as established under section 1531.201 of the Revised Code. The "to make restitution to the state" could be interesting. The value of each fish, or aggravate, could easily be shown to be the value of the tournament they were going to win. Similar to arguing at time the value of your house matches what an identical one sold for down the street not what the city valuated. Unfortunately, this would take a motivated prosecutor, I believe you are on point, they'll plea this down to an easy and expedited win. Forfeiture of boat and equipment and lifetime ban from hunting and fishing would be appropriate IF it's within Ohio's laws to do so. IF they have to buy back confiscated equipment, that's technically a financial hit along with any fine. Seems cramming lead down the fish's gullet constitutes some type of cruelty? Well that's the extent of my years of observation and training watching Perry Mason as a kid. Be well.

[@bisketbeeblebrox8124]

Cant believe nobody has whooped their @$$ yet. In my day those dude didnt make it out of the parking lot.

[@TexasbyStorm]

This is the kind of case that will hurt the most in civil court. It will cost them huge and they will lose. The runner ups in all tournaments where cheating is probable should all sue.

[@bloodybonescomic]

Prisons now cost the state about $50k per year per inmate and prisons everywhere are all crammed. These guys' crimes are relatively trivial insofar as crimes go so the might get a few months but probably will get probation. Their boat will be forfeit, and their tackle too. It'll be a buzz killer regardless.

[@Darthdoodoo]

The cheats should use the darryl brooks defense- "they didnt prove subject matter jurisdiction for the record"

[@dont.listen.to.me.]

The other contestants will have to Civil sue. Every 2nd and 3rd place contestants should sue for every contest they lost in the last 18 months

[@jcfish6702]

Should have made the view products all sinkers

[@kinjunranger140]

I think they should lose their fishing privileges and that's it. They got caught cheating, big deal. We have so many laws in America that we are kidding ourselves if we think we're "free".

[@kevinhutchinson1322]

The punishment does not meet the crime for sure.

[@ClayWilliamson]

It’s a non-violent crime. They should fine em big time (equal to what they stood to win by cheating in that tourney) and do 90 days with 10 year probation. The real punishment is blackballed for life from fishing tourneys.

[@DRWBassFishing]

Hey Randy, there are a lot of local tournaments at the lakes I fish. I have heard some whispers here and there about cheating. How prevalent do you think cheating is in bass fishing tournaments? Have you seen other examples of cheating in tournaments? Just curious.

[@oldfarmer4700]

My brother got threw in jail and fined 450 for rolling thru a stop sign. Was several years ago and the cop didn’t like his long hair, my son spent the night in jail and was charged for possession of a concealed deadly weapon - was a small crowbar laying in the floor board of the car among other tools that his jacket slid off the seat and was covering it, and they were my tools. Just goes to show the little guy gets hammered and if your in the lime light or a politician or relative of you can laugh it off. The higher the crime the more their a victim. It’s a crock of you know what!

[@jaredcreason9369]

Fishing licenses suspended in OHIO, but they're both Pa residents.

[@SayKyleNotCow]

That does absolutely nothing to deter the behavior. Sets the tone that it’s a better to risk getting away with it. Massive failure by Ohio.

[@roberthayford2004]

Randy I’d be curious to know if walleye tournaments are like bass tournaments as far as releasing the fish ALIVE after weigh in?? There’s no telling how many fish these guys have thrown back with big lead weights in them, and I’m sure that’s a death sentence. I don’t think a fish could pass something that big thru it’s digestive tract. And if the fish dies, something will eat it and almost surely get lead poisoning. Possibly pass it on to other wildlife??

[@hTIG]

Most walleye tournaments are kill tournaments. Walleye are really hard to keep alive in a live well. Most walleye tournament anglers donate their catches to homeless shelters and such. But are not required to do so.

[@crtreasures1136]

What a joke. The punishment should be severe enough to make future and or current cheaters think about what their doing. Do the crime and do the time.

[@CurtisKitto]

That is what the sentencing guidelines read. You know yourself, they will not spend a day in jail. They might pay the fine. They should have been charged with Grand Larceny. What Is Considered Grand Theft? In Ohio, when the value of property or services stolen is $7,500-$150,000, or the property is a motor vehicle or any dangerous drug, the offense is considered grand theft. Grand theft is a felony of the fourth degree punishable by 6 to 18 months in prison and up to $5,000 in fines.

[@gunfisher4661]

The punishment seems much too lenient considering that`s the max allowed by law taking in to account the amount to be gained if they were not caught. Probably the only thing that may hit them is the loss of fishing license and a small fine.

[@t2fishing818]

If they spend a year in prison, it’s more than enough. Not being able to work for a year and the related loss of income that comes with that and having a criminal record afterward is pretty severe, too. Suspension of their fishing / hunting privileges for life is also significant. As is the rightful seizure of the equipment used when committing the crime. They have rights, too, and the punishment has to fit the crime that they are actually convicted of. And, they can only be held accountable for what they are found guilty of (just this one event where they were caught). This can’t be compared to laws that, when broken, put peoples lives at risk or have potential impact on the degradation of society (DUI, drug use, etc) because they’re not the same.

[@davidharris4030]

I have definitely been keeping up with this. I agree the amount of money at a minimum should be what they would have won witch I don’t know what 1st place paid. For sure the year in jail would definitely hurt them financially. I might be okay with 10 years of no fishing period. Banned for life of entering tournaments.It probably be hard to prove the winnings from the past but maybe there’s a way to do that.

[@jbooh88]

The fine and potential jail time could be a little worse. If they truly love to fish, no public fishing license would be pretty awful for the rest of your life.

[@flaminggorilla909]

I think this is up to the tournament organizers to sue at this point. And the indefinite suspension of fishing privileges is pretty severe. I do agree they should have to pay more money somehow though.

[@larrymarket9658]

Huge fine equivalent to their career winnings. Lifetime fishing license ban in all states. Lifetime competitive fishing ban. If these guys are even seen on a boat, even if it’s on a boat that doesn’t belong to them, immediately arrested.

[@jamesgasper7559]

There should be a RICO charge to go after the proceeds of criminal activities

[@davidf8305]

I could never jump up and down and plead for any cheater of a sport to be sent to prison. Prison is never a good place to be and such a suggestion would invoke humanitarian issues and it gets to the point where it says more about those that wish to see them in jail than it does the cheaters themselves. If you've been in prison you know what time it is. The crime just doesn't warrant prison. Community service on the other hand is more suitable and I agree the financial penalty should be greater especially given we know they've cheated in the past. What the people want is justice, primarily for having been cheated out of financial gain and community respect. The punishment should appease that aspect of being cheated financially. They are already serving prison time for the damage they've done to alienate themselves from the community and the revoking of their license. Better to keep them in the community and let them face those consequences like men, that would be the real rehabilitation that prison aims to produce. Its just money folks, they should pay back the actual winners what they're owed and a proper judge should find ways to appease the emotional energy, karmic energy that exists as bad blood between the cheaters and all concerned. Pointing the finger and holding onto that hatred is also karmic. Let it go. If the main concern was money, let the punishment be more financially severe. They are already serving time with their shame.

[@stevegreen1747]

Theft over $500 here in Arkansas is a felony. I feel like they stole way over $500. I don't feel like it was victimless neither. The folks that didn't get credit for their legitimate win lost out big time. Not just the money that could help change their life but the opportunity to further their career was taken from them.

[@frankolivafishing1919]

Randy I can’t honestly say I agree with you on this subject 100%.

[@jacklangdon2609]

You need to contact your state Representative and have the law changed. In Texas the law broken would be a 3rd degree Felony with a punishment of 2 to ten in state pen and $10,000 fine. Lose of license and have a felony conviction on their record. Plus loose of boat and all tackle. Texas house bill 108 adopted September 2011

[@jayhatfield5379]

I guess we need to have a metal detector at each tournament from now on, ridiculous Cheating at this level and the monies that came from the others pockets for this lax fines is so lax , get a Judge who fishes Walleye tournaments

[@brianingell3174]

hoping the only fishing they get to do from now on is what's on sale at the local grocery store and i'm not sure about that.....

[@the_mad_swimbaiter455]

They should have to forfeit all wins for the last 12 months and pay restitution, all gear seizure, full life time ban to fish in any and all organized events. 10 year fishing ban and board to decide after that.

[@rtmdlawncare5774]

The punishment is worth the attempt. Seriously… It does nothing to deter or seriously punish the offenders.

[@mitchellholroyd2837]

If proven guilty of all crimes. I'd hope that the minimum would be. Confiscation of every boat and tackle used, a permanent ban on any fishing, hunting, trapping licensing. And six months in the pokie. Of course all the normal fines and fees. I probably missed something 😕

[@3178341171]

Bet they plea bargain it to no jail time and the fine sticks. So the fine merely becomes a "cost" that some are obviously willing to pay/risk. Last time I checked, criminals, by their nature, really don't care about the laws.

[@unbalancedredneck5778]

I feel the fines should be a lot more than that. I also think fishing privileges should be suspended for at least ten years. We have to remember the punishment has to fit the crime but the state is bound in many ways by how the laws are written. Many crimes have a max punishment established ahead of time.

[@ChangeDaChannel]

How much money have they cheated others out of?

[@stulax1216]

While it might not seem like it's enough, isn't there something that the tournament or the sport itself can do independently?

[@StonerCreek74]

It's a joke. They probably won't do any jail time if they don't have any prior record and their sentence will be probated. Plus the fines they can set up payments on a monthly plan. As far as fishing suspensions go, these guys don't care about rules so if they want to go fishing they will. Idk if they have families or jobs that have been affected by this, but it would be interesting to hear about. They'll probably just move away where people don't know them and do this type of thing again. Crazy.

[@bobbypetro1218]

I love fishing I catch and release I really think the punishment that they got by getting caught on video is a punishment itself for the rest of your life that video will be a reminder to them nobody got hurt during thank God at that moment he was surrounded with angry people I can’t see them doing to three years in prison for putting sinkers in fishes it will be crazy if they sentence these two guys for a couple years in jail ridiculous they got caught they got expose pay a fine restitution anything more than that is crazy remember do you have children and family nobody wants to take anybody away from their kids for 2 or three years in jail I know everyone’s mad but look at the big picture God bless you guys and your family I love your videos my friend keep up the good work 🙏🏼💯🎣🎣🎣