We have new information regarding the Iowa Department of Natural Resources investigation of a former Greene County Deputy who illegally possessed deer antlers.

According to a DNR press release, DNR Conservation Officer Nathan Haupert received a call from a passerby about a car versus deer accident on November 3rd that happened on N Avenue i between 185th and 190th streets. The passerby told Haupert that he asked Deputy Kirk Hammer, who responded to the incident, if he could have a salvage tag for the deer carcass. Hammer declined to issue him one.

State code stipulates that a salvage tag is to be issued first to the individuals involved in the accident, and then if those individuals decline, the tag goes to any bystander. Later in the day, the same passerby drove past the scene and witnessed Hammer in his sheriff’s office uniform cutting the antlers off of the deer with a saw. Officer Haupert questioned Hammer about the incident and Hammer admitted to taking the antlers. Then on November 12th, Haupert issued Hammer a citation for unlawful possession of whitetail deer antlers for a $195 fine.

We’ve previously reported that online court documents showed that Hammer paid the fine. Greene County Sheriff Jack Williams confirmed to Raccoon Valley Radio that Hammer resigned in lieu of termination on November 20th for violating several Sheriff’s office policies. Williams notes the policies that Hammer violated include: improper use of a departmental vehicle, failure to report violations of the law, failure to inform superiors, failure to uphold the duties that are required of the position, not responding to calls, improper action or breach of discipline of the knowledge of laws and regulations and failing to follow the general responsibilities.

According to the DNR, the investigation is complete and no further charges are expected in the case.