Ep 5. Caught On Camera

Rugged Justice is a reality show that follows the day-to-day activities of the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife law enforcement officers as they work to protect wildlife and habitats in the Pacific Northwest. In season 3 episode 5, titled "Caught On Camera," viewers get a glimpse of the dangerous and challenging situations these officers face while on the job.

The episode starts with Officer Nicpunnish responding to a call about a cougar sighting in a residential area. He quickly realizes that the cougar is inside a fenced backyard and poses a risk to the homeowners and their pets. Officer Nicpunnish sets up a trap and uses a camera to monitor the area in case the cougar returns. This situation is a prime example of the challenges the officers face when dealing with wild animals in urban environments, and highlights their commitment to public safety.

Later, Officer Pearson and Officer Painter receive a call about a group of fishermen who have been harvesting Dungeness crabs out of season. The officers set up surveillance and catch the fishermen in the act. This segment showcases the importance of protecting wildlife and ecosystems, as well as the investigative skills required for this line of work.

In another part of the episode, the officers are called to a remote location to investigate an illegally set bear trap. The trap is designed to kill the bear and is a clear violation of state hunting laws. The officers must carefully remove the trap and set up surveillance in the area to try and identify the perpetrator. This segment highlights not only the potential danger of illegal hunting but also the need for continued conservation efforts to protect wildlife populations.

Finally, the officers respond to a call about a group of people who are illegally camping in a protected area. As they approach the site, the group tries to flee, but the officers are able to apprehend them and find evidence of illegal drug use on the scene. This segment highlights the dangers that officers face when engaging with individuals who may be under the influence of drugs. It also showcases the diverse skill set these officers must possess to deal with a variety of situations.

Throughout the episode, viewers are able to see the commitment, bravery, and expertise required of these officers as they work to protect both wildlife and public safety. From dealing with wild animals in residential areas to investigating illegal hunting and camping, each segment showcases a different aspect of the work these officers do on a daily basis. As the officers demonstrate their dedication to conservation and public safety, viewers are left with a greater appreciation for the challenging and important work they do.