Joe Clay, aka "Rambro'," the suspected poacher who haunts the hills near residential areas, has been spotted again. Forest advocate Lori Paul passes along the following information:
Rambro's vehicle is usually an older, maroon color Dodge van, CA license #4AGU605. He sometimes keeps a small motorized trail bike in the van for reconnaissance up fire roads and larger trails. (Yes, it is illegal to operate a motorcycle on County and USFS trails and beyond fire road gates).
Angeles Crest Highway and other roads into the Angeles Forest are now open, so there is no excuse for Clay not to hunt deer or other legal game in the high country where it is safe to fire weapons and where the wildlife is not acclimated to human presence. Hunting from local trails in close proximity to hillside homes and day use areas is not safe nor legal. Killing wild animals, such as our local deer, that have become accustomed to the presence of people, vehicles, etc. is certainly not sporting nor is it safe, since such animals are most often found close to homes and picnic areas.
Rumor has it that Clay and local hunters may have installed motion sensing cameras to track wildlife movement along certain county and Angeles Forest trails. Pot growers attempting to reestablish in the Forest may do the same to provide advanced warning of intruders near their illegal crops. Anyone finding hunting blinds, bait piles, traps, snares, and such should be aware of the possibility that you may be observed. Stay safe, leave the site and contact authorities immediately. Do not attempt to dismantle blinds, snares or traps by yourself. Report any camouflaged cameras, tree platforms, campsites outside authorized campgrounds, or other suspicious objects and activities to the USFS and Altadena Sheriffs. Photos, descriptions of what you've observed (including license # of any vehicle), and exact location info would be helpful for law enforcement.
If you see Clay hunting too close to residences and recreational areas (day use, campgrounds, or on trails), please call the Sheriffs without delay, followed by USFS Dispatch and the CA Dept. of Fish & Game wardens at CalTip.
Rambro returns like a bad penny every autumn, allegedly to kill bears, deer and other wildlife in our neighborhoods and popular recreational areas. Your vigilance helps reduce poaching and sends a message that this sort of unethical and illegal hunting is not acceptable here. With enough information and a bit of luck, perhaps law enforcement can act to stop any illegal poaching.
