You'll recall our January 2012 issue featured an overview article by correspondent Michael Bodenchuk on alligator hunts in the US South, detailing a number of recent subscriber reports, including a generally positive report by Gordon Green on his Louisiana hunt with DuPont. Green's only complaint about the hunt was that he hadn't received the meat from his gator. Another positive report on DuPont's operation is in our database as well (see Report 5672).
Shortly after this report was published we learned of the indictments. In a follow-up interview, DuPont told Bodenchuk that the charges are completely false and that his attorney has filed motions to have the charges dismissed. He remains in business and intends to continue hunting through the 2012 season. DuPont also reported that he is planning on attending the SCI Convention in Las Vegas in February.
It's important to remember that, while this case works its way through the legal process, DuPont is considered innocent until proven guilty. We suggest any subscriber considering a hunt with DuPont carefully read the two reports we have on his operation. In his follow-up, Bodenchuk provided this reminder: "The Federal Lacy Act makes it illegal to violate local wildlife protection laws in one state and move across state boundaries to avoid prosecution. For outfitters, if a paying hunter violates a local law, the outfitter may be charged a felony Lacy Act violation, since the outfitter is engaged in a commercial operation and the customer is engaged in interstate business. For all hunters who cross state lines to hunt, it is obviously critical to know, understand and follow all laws and regulations to their strict letter."
Finally, regarding Green's complaint that he had not received the meat from his hunt, DuPont told Bodenchuk that he'd had a freezer go out, resulting in........(continued)
