In an era where social media influencers often feel like they are above the law, one individual has learned the hard way that actions on and off the screen have real-life consequences. Angel Smith-Torres, a self-proclaimed social media influencer from Cheyenne, Wyoming, has recently been sentenced for multiple charges related to illegal fishing activities. The case highlights the dangers of misusing influence and the long-lasting impact it can have on local wildlife.

A Lengthy Investigation

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department began investigating Smith-Torres in 2022 after receiving reports of illegal fishing practices. According to the authorities, Smith-Torres had been involved in illegal wildlife activities that caused severe harm to several local waters. These violations were connected to a 2022 incident where Smith-Torres illegally released live fish into Wyoming’s waters, which resulted in considerable damage.

The charges against him include fishing without a valid license and taking wildlife while his privileges were suspended. Smith-Torres pleaded no contest to both charges, agreeing to a plea deal that resulted in fines, probation, and the suspension of his fishing and hunting privileges.

The Incident That Sparked the Investigation

The investigation into Smith-Torres’s actions began after a disturbing report surfaced about him illegally releasing smallmouth bass into Cheyenne’s Sloan’s Lake. Smith-Torres, known for posting his life online, had also shared a video on social media showing him releasing the fish into the lake. This act was deemed unlawful, as transporting and releasing live fish without proper authorization can have harmful consequences on local ecosystems.

After further investigation, Smith-Torres was charged with the illegal transportation and release of live fish, which are serious violations under Wyoming’s wildlife laws. In addition to the fines, he received a year of unsupervised probation and a 30-day suspended jail sentence. His hunting and fishing privileges were suspended for a decade. This suspension extended beyond Wyoming, as the state is part of the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact. This compact ensures that when an individual loses their hunting or fishing rights in one state, the loss is recognized in other states as well.

Continued Violations and Consequences

Despite his legal troubles, Smith-Torres continued to flaunt his fishing activities on social media. In December 2024, a tip-off to the Stop Poaching Hotline revealed that he was once again fishing at Sloan’s Lake. This time, a social media post showed him holding a fishing rod with a small perch. Over the next few months, game wardens and authorities documented his fishing activities in various waters, not just in Wyoming but also in Alabama and Nebraska.

As a result of these new violations, Smith-Torres faced additional charges. The court extended his hunting and fishing license suspension by nine more years, making it a total of 19 years. He was also sentenced to another year of probation and a further 30-day jail sentence, due to violating the terms of his probation. His jail sentence began immediately, with credit for the eight days he had already served during a previous traffic arrest.

A Lesson for Influencers

This case serves as a cautionary tale about the responsibilities that come with social media fame. Smith-Torres’s actions not only put local ecosystems at risk but also showed how the misuse of influence can cause long-term damage. While he may have gained attention through his posts, the consequences of his actions were real, and the punishment he faced was a reminder that everyone, regardless of their online following, must adhere to the law.

It’s hard to say whether Smith-Torres will be able to return to his social media career after serving his sentence. But, his story highlights the importance of considering the consequences before posting or acting in ways that may harm the environment or break the law. Whether you’re an influencer or simply someone who enjoys outdoor activities, it’s important to respect the natural world and follow the rules to preserve it for future generations.

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