New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
Media contact: Rachel Shockley, (505) 476-8071
Rachel.shockley@state.nm.us
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, FEB. 17, 2014:
CHAIRMAN RESIGNS FROM STATE GAME COMMISSION
SANTA FE – Scott Bidegain, chairman of the New Mexico Game Commission, tendered his resignation from the commission over the weekend. Bidegain represents Game Commission District 4.
In his resignation letter, Bidegain stated: “I am honored to have served on the commission and as its chair. Unfortunately, I was present during a hunting incident earlier this month that will result in charges being filed shortly. I believe that it is in the best interest of the Commission and the Department that I step down at this time. I think you should be proud to know that throughout this incident, the officers at the Department acted honorably and professionally.”
Department conservation officers diligently pursue all wildlife violations in their efforts to protect and conserve the state’s wildlife. Department officers filed a misdemeanor charge in Quay County Magistrate Court today against Bidegain alleging he was an accessory to the unlawful killing of a cougar.
Vice Chairman Thomas “Dickie” Salopek will lead the commission following Bidegain’s resignation.
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