SALT LAKE CITY — A Utah lawmaker who pleaded no contest in a poaching case will resign from the Utah Legislature, effective July 1, 2022.

Washington County Republican Travis Seegmiller cited a move out of the district as the reason for his resignation.

In October, 2021, Seegmiller was charged in Washington County with three Class B misdemeanors, including unlawful taking of protected wildlife, and unlawful discharge of a firearm. The charges stem from an incident that took place on August 13 in Washington County.

Seegmiller pleaded not guilty to those charges. Then in April 2022, Seegmiller plead no contest to a charge of taking wildlife while trespassing.  He had reportedly shot and killed a deer on private property.

According to House Speaker Brad Wilson, there will be no further action taken.

“We monitored the situation closely,” Wilson said, “and let the legal process play out. Many members were troubled by the accusations and had discussions about options in the wake of his plea agreement.

“However, because of Rep. Seegmiller’s resignation announced this morning there is no current plan to pursue this further,” said Wilson.

“I appreciate Rep. Seegmiller’s service and accept his resignation,” Wilson also said.

I appreciate Rep. Seegmiller’s service and accept his resignation. I wish Rep. Seegmiller and his family well in their future plans and endeavors. https://t.co/AwKbnYLFYU

— Speaker Brad Wilson (@BradWilsonGOP) May 10, 2022

 

Court records show Seegmiller paid $400 in restitution, which benefitted the Help Stop Poaching Fund.

Seegmiller has represented District 62 since he was appointed in February, 2018. The Washington County Republican Party will hold a special election to fill House District 62’s vacancy in the coming months.

This story will be updated.

Becky Bruce contributed to this report.

 

 

 

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