WAUPACA COUNTY, WI – Three teenagers are facing multiple misdemeanor charges connected to a series of illegal poaching incidents involving deer and raccoons across Waupaca and Portage counties. Prosecutors say Ian Johnson, 18, of Amherst; Ethan Lashua, 18, of Iola; and Landan Fuhs, 17, of Scandinavia took part in nighttime shining and hunting activities, with some of the alleged shootings carried out using a handgun.
According to the criminal complaint, Fuhs admitted to firing at 12 to 15 deer since the spring of 2025, recovering only two animals and acknowledging that he knew his actions were illegal. Investigators say Johnson and Lashua also admitted to being present during some of the poaching incidents, and both 18-year-olds are additionally charged with obstructing a conservation warden.
The investigation began after reports of gunshots and later a tip identifying a vehicle linked to the teens. All three suspects are scheduled to make their initial appearances in Waupaca County Court on Thursday afternoon.
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