LIVERMORE — Operation Game Thief has increased the reward to $3,500 for anyone who can provide information that leads to the conviction of those responsible for killing four does in Chesterville, Leeds, Livermore and Livermore Falls.

The does were fatally shot and left to waste in open fields, wardens said.

Thanks to the generosity of concerned citizens, Operation Game Thief increased the reward, according to the Maine Warden Service.

It is the second time the reward has been increased since the initial $1,000 was offered.

“We have been getting tips but nothing concrete yet,” Cpl. John MacDonald said.

“These events have created significant public interest and game wardens and Operation Game Thief feel there is someone who holds the keys to unlock this very troubling case of poaching,” according to a news release from the Warden Service.

“Our natural resources and the conservation of those resources are the responsibility of all who love Maine,” the release stated. “We need your help and Maine OGT has made this very clear.”

The first complaint of an injured deer was reported at about 2 p.m. April 22, near the intersection of Bragdon Road, also known as French Road, and East Road in Chesterville.

A deer was found in a field posted “no trespassing” with a fatal gunshot wound to the spine, wardens said. The deer was pregnant with twins.

Three more dead does were found shot and left to rot on Route 106 in Leeds, Route 133 near Dodge Road in Livermore Falls and on River Road in Livermore.

All four appear to have been killed under similar circumstances, wardens said.

Anyone who saw suspicious activity in the areas of Leeds, Livermore, Livermore Falls (East Livermore), Chesterville, Jay or surrounding areas is strongly encouraged to call the Maine Warden Service at Operation Game Thief at 1-800-ALERT-US (1-800-253-7887) where the tipster can remain anonymous, or the Public Safety Dispatch in Augusta at 207-624-7076 or in Gray at 207-657-3030.

dperry@sunmediagroup.net