CINCINNATI — For the last 21 days, Ohio wildlife investigator Kevin Behr has been in intensive care at UC Medical Center after he was shot by poachers in Clinton County. He's had seven surgeries so far, and those who know him say he's fighting every step of the way.
Twenty-five-year veteran investigator Behr was shot on private land in Clinton County on Dec. 20, 2020. He was one of the officers conducting an undercover investigation into poaching.
"It wasn't an accident,” said FOP Lodge 143 vice president Chris Gilkey. “They purposely made the decision to pull the trigger. That negligence resulted in an officer getting shot."
According to court records, three people face charges: Brian Liming, who allegedly shot Behr, faces charges of having weapons under disability and hunting without a permit. Thomas Davis was charged with aiding an offender, and Brian Achtermann was charged with hunting without a license or permit.
"(Officers) put their life on the line to protect a resource that can't defend itself, and that's what (Behr) was doing that day,” Gilkey said.
Now, overwhelming support has poured out for the seriously injured Behr, Gilkey said. Cincinnati's Fraternal Order of Police Lodge is also doing what they can.
"From the beginning when I first told him what was going on, it was, ‘what do you need? We have your back. We are going to help you. We are there for you,’” he said.
Local organization The Shield is helping cover the cost of hotel rooms for Behr’s family.
“Kevin's a dedicated family man. He's big into family. I know that he really likes karate."
For the husband and father of three, a long road to recovery awaits. His family said they're grateful for the support from the community.
"The encouraging thumbs up picture that we got … makes everyone feel better when everyone sees those pictures,” Gilkey said. “They know he's fighting. He's scrapping."
If you'd like to help with blood drives or donate to the fundraising website “Strong as a Behr” benefitting his family, click here.
