Alaska reality TV show cast, production firm face charges over illegal bear hunt

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — Two cast members and a production company of the reality show "Alaska: The Last Frontier" are facing a misdemeanor charge after they reportedly used a helicopter for a black bear hunt.

The Alaska Dispatch News reports that Atz Lee Kilcher and his wife, Cristina Jane Kilcher, and Wilma TV Inc. have each been charged in connection with a helicopter flight and bear hunt in September 2014 near Homer.

Under Alaska law, it is illegal to use a helicopter to hunt for game. This includes using a helicopter to transport hunters, or any unprocessed game from the field, the Dispatch News reported.

Alaska State Troopers spokeswoman Megan Peters says the allegations surfaced when someone who worked for the production company tipped off troopers.

A Discovery Channel spokesman wouldn't say whether the alleged incident was shown on television.

A court date for the Kilchers has been set for Aug. 11.

"Alaska: The Last Frontier" returns for a fifth season in late 2015.