Woman accused in numerous Tri-County poaching incidents has been formally charged

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Wis. (WBAY) – The woman accused of numerous poaching incidents in which more than a hundred deer were killed or mutilated was formally charged Wednesday.

Criminal charges were filed against Jessica Kroening in Washington County on Wednesday. She is accused of intentionally contributing to the delinquency of a child, illegally attacking a deer, moose or bear as participants in a crime and resisting a conservation officer.

Kroening is charged along with three other teenagers accused of being involved in a series of poaching incidents that spanned three Wisconsin counties: Dodge, Washington and Fond du Lac.

Investigators have reason to believe that well over 100 deer were shot and/or killed between late spring 2023 and July 2024. authorities said previously. Kroening and the teens are also accused of harassing other wildlife, including geese, raccoons, opossums and turtles. These animals would be captured, kept in captivity and harassed before being released.

While the teens also face charges, state law prohibits juvenile court defendants from making public statements.

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