Authorities say man lived with deer

Man potentially faces misdemeanor offense of illegal possession of wildlife

HUNTINGTON, W.Va – Authorities in West Virginia said a man kept two deer in captivity at his home for at least a year.

Officer Joshua Addesa with the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources said officials discovered the two white-tailed bucks when they visited the man's home on July 4 after receiving a tip from a citizen, various media outlets reported.

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Addesa said the two deer had a healthy supply of hay available to them inside the home. Addesa said officers set the deer free but because the animals were domesticated, they may be considered for relocation, The Associated Press reported.

In West Virginia, illegal possession of wildlife is a misdemeanor offense.

Due to the ongoing investigation the man has not been identified.