Creek Kings Outdoors YouTubers Plead Guilty to 40 Poaching Charges
William Bethel and Justin Booth, creators of the YouTube channel “Creek Kings Outdoors,” have pleaded guilty to 40 combined poaching-related charges in Ohio, according to a Google Alert. The pair, who gained popularity for content centered on outdoor activities and wildlife, face prison time as part of their sentencing. The charges, which include violations of state wildlife protection laws, were filed by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office and involve allegations of unlawful hunting and trafficking of protected species.
The case stems from investigations by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) into unauthorized hunting activities linked to the channel’s content. According to a court filing obtained by local news outlets, Bethel and Booth were accused of hunting deer without valid permits and using prohibited methods, including baiting and night vision equipment. The charges carry potential fines and prison terms, with prosecutors emphasizing the environmental and legal consequences of such actions.
The YouTube channel, which amassed over 200,000 subscribers, has been a focal point for debates about the intersection of content creation and conservation ethics. While the pair’s videos often highlighted traditional hunting practices, the recent charges highlight the legal risks associated with violating wildlife regulations. ODNR officials stated that the case serves as a warning against “exploiting natural resources for personal gain without regard for environmental stewardship.”
The sentencing, which was finalized in late July 2026, included a three-year prison term for Bethel and a two-year term for Booth, according to court records. Both were also ordered to pay restitution for damages tied to the illegal hunting activities. The Ohio Attorney General’s Office declined to comment further, citing ongoing legal proceedings.
The case has drawn attention from conservation groups and online communities, with some viewers expressing surprise at the severity of the charges. “It’s alarming to see how quickly these activities can cross into criminal territory,” said a representative from the Ohio Wildlife Federation, who noted that poaching undermines efforts to maintain healthy ecosystems.
The legal outcome underscores the challenges of balancing recreational activities with wildlife protection laws. Ohio’s Department of Natural Resources has previously stated that unauthorized hunting not only violates state statutes but also threatens biodiversity. The agency’s enforcement division reported a 15% increase in poaching-related investigations in 2025, citing heightened public awareness and improved reporting mechanisms.
For the creators of “Creek Kings Outdoors,” the case marks a significant professional setback. Their YouTube channel, which previously featured content on hunting, fishing, and outdoor survival, has seen a decline in engagement following the charges. Social media users have called for greater accountability in content that promotes activities with legal and environmental implications.
Legal experts note that the case aligns with broader trends in wildlife enforcement, where digital platforms are increasingly scrutinized for enabling or endorsing illegal activities. “Creators have a responsibility to ensure their content complies with local and state laws,” said a law professor at the University of Cincinnati, who added that the case could set a precedent for future cases involving online influencers.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has not announced plans to take further action against the channel, but the case has prompted discussions about the role of social media in shaping public perceptions of wildlife conservation. Some advocates argue that platforms like YouTube should implement stricter guidelines for content related to hunting and environmental practices.
As the legal and public relations fallout continues, the case remains a focal point for debates about the responsibilities of content creators and the enforcement of environmental laws. For now, Bethel and Booth’s prison sentences serve as a stark reminder of the legal consequences of violating wildlife protection statutes.