An elk herd on Zarembo Island
In a case showcasing the incredibly strict regulations governing wildlife management in Southeast Alaska, Wrangell Vice Mayor David Powell and his brother Aaron Powell have pleaded guilty to charges stemming from an unauthorized elk hunt. The incident, which occurred in October 2024 on Zarembo Island, underscores the challenges of sustainable hunting practices in a region where elk populations are carefully monitored and permits are highly limited.
The hunt took place on Zarembo Island, located near Wrangell in Game Management Unit 3. According to court documents, the Powell brothers, along with another local resident, Steven Gile, harvested a bull elk without the required permit. Alaska State Trooper Alisha Seward issued citations after discovering the violation, leading to the seizure of approximately 28 pounds of elk meat from David Powell and 76 pounds of meat, along with antlers, a cellphone, and a GPS device from Aaron Powell.
Elk hunting in this area requires a specific drawing permit, known as DE324, which is issued via lottery and limited to just one tag for bull elk during the October 1–31 season in 2024. This marked the first authorized elk hunt on Zarembo Island in 17 years, following a decision by the Alaska Board of Game in January 2023 to reopen the area amid growing but still vulnerable elk herds reintroduced in the 1980s. Without the DE324 permit, any harvest violates Alaska wildlife laws, which aim to prevent overhunting and ensure population sustainability.
The charges framed the violation as negligent possession and transportation of an illegally harvested animal—a misdemeanor under Alaska Statute—rather than intentional poaching. This classification suggests an oversight or mistake, such as a failure to confirm permit status, rather than a deliberate flouting of the rules. David Powell, an avid hunter who has publicly advocated for expanded elk hunting opportunities in the region, declined to comment on the matter when contacted.
On November 18th, Aaron Powell appeared before Magistrate Judge Rachel Newport in a Sitka courtroom, where he was fined $7,000 (with $3,000 suspended), had his hunting license revoked for two years, and was placed on probation for three years. A week later, on November 25, David Powell faced Magistrate Judge Pamela Stahla-Kernin and received a $7,000 fine (with $3,500 suspended), a one-year hunting license suspension, and four years of probation.
Both men were also required to pay a $100 police training surcharge and are prohibited from assisting other hunters in the field for the entirety of their license suspensions. The sentences reflect the court's emphasis on accountability while acknowledging the negligent nature of the offense.
Steven Gile's case remains ongoing. His trial was vacated, and a status hearing is scheduled for December 10th. No further details on Gile's involvement or potential penalties have been released as of this writing.
