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Suspects Caught On Camera Trying To Sabotage Mt. Lebanon Deer Cull

MT. LEBANON (KDKA) – The decision to go forward with deer culling in Mt. Lebanon has been a controversial one.

Now police say some people are trying to sabotage the effort.

Police say they're investigating after deer repellent or urine was found on the pens used to trap the deer. Once the deer are lured inside, they'll be shot and killed.

The saboteurs were allegedly caught on camera.

"The photographs show that some sort of liquid was sprayed from a device, like a water gun, unsure exactly what the liquid was," said Mt. Lebanon Assistant Police Chief Aaron Lauth.

It was no easy job for whoever did it. They had to walk through snow-covered, rough terrain.

The suspects could be charged with trespassing and criminal mischief.

Protesters were also out Saturday to oppose deer culling in Mt. Lebanon.

Last week, commissioners made some changes to the culling plan.

The change was due to a federal law prohibiting carrying or discharging a firearm within 1,000 feet of a school.

Proponents of controlling the deer population submitted their own petition signatures – around 1,400 of them – asking that something be done, without specifying what.

Among their concerns were Lyme disease and accidents.

It's estimated to cost roughly $500 per deer. While a specific number of deer populating Mt. Lebanon is unknown, one area recently evaluated was called a major highway for deer.

Opponents say sterilization is a more humane option and say what's in the works is unethical.

However, some people who oppose the cull told KDKA they don't think sabotage is acceptable.

"I think they're totally wrong, they shouldn't sabotage anything," said one resident.

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