2,000 deer poaching arrests made in Mo.

ST. LOUIS (AP) -- State conservation agents have made 2,000 arrests statewide for illegal deer poaching this season.

Missouri Department of Conservation agent Chris Morrow told KSDK-TV that there has been an increase in the number of cases of spotlighting -- shooting deer after shining bright lights at them.

Poachers also are engaging in the illegal shooting of deer from the road. Morrow says deer have been found with their heads and antlers removed.

Cash rewards are offered to anyone who provides information leading to a poaching arrest. Callers to the "Operation Game Thief" tip line can remain anonymous. The number is 1-800-392-1111.

Poachers face up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Repeat offenders can lose hunting and fishing privileges.

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Information from: KSDK-TV, http://www.ksdk.com