Don’t Feed The Bears (On Cable): Man Featured on Animal Planet Pleads Guilty To Feeding Wildlife

Charlie Vandergaw has discovered the perils of fame. Vandergaw was featured on Animal Planet in a segment called “Stranger Among Bears.” He has now pleaded guilty to eight counts of intentionally feeding game and given a suspended sentence and large fine.

Vandergaw, 71, was facing 20 counts for illegally feeding game at his “Bear Haven” in the Yentna River valley, about 50 miles northwest of Anchorage.

Part of the evidence was the fact he ordered more than 10,000 pounds of dog food flown to Bear Haven but had no dogs.

Vandergaw pleaded guilty under a deal to receive 180 days of suspended jail time, a fine of between $20,000 and $72,000 and three years of probation.

With that fine, the rangers can now buy the famed 54-Ring-a-Ding basket:

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