A Mississippi man has pleaded not guilty in federal court to charges connected to the live transportation of white-tailed deer from Texas to Mississippi, a violation of state and federal laws.
The Hattiesburg American reported Coleman Slade of Purvis, Mississippi, faces seven charges including conspiracy to defraud the U.S. government, committing prohibited acts including transporting the deer across state lines and making a false statement to a federal law enforcement officer.
U.S. District Magistrate Judge Michael T. Parker presided over Slade's initial court appearance and arraignment Thursday in Hattiesburg.
Slade is one of three men accused of importing the deer into Mississippi. Also charged are Don Durrett of Aspermont, Texas, and Dewayne Slade of Purvis.
