AUGUSTA — A Maine state lawmaker says he wants the federal government to investigate the conduct of undercover game wardens facing questions for law enforcement tactics, including providing alcohol and encouraging poaching.

State Rep. Jeffrey Evangelos tells the Portland Press Herald he sent the request to the U.S. Department of Justice on Thursday.

Dozens have come forward since the May investigation. Hunters say a game warden spent two years investigating and encouraging them to commit crimes.

Chairs of the committee that oversees the Maine Warden Service declined to hold public hearings on the agency’s conduct, saying law enforcement agencies aren’t allowed to reveal covert operations policies.

Evangelos, an Independent, wants the federal government to force the agency to change those policies.

A warden service spokesman didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.

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difw, game wardens, politics
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