Modern-day poachers are causing potentially dangerous meat to get into the food chain, according to Devon and Cornwall police.
They say these days poaching is an organised operation, with the stolen meat and fish being sold to hotels, restaurants and shops.
There are hygiene risks resulting from illegal operators handling the produce, and wild venison is also associated with tuberculosis and E-coli.
Police say they'll be investigating where the stolen animals are butchered and stored, and who the poachers are selling them to.
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