JACKSON — Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks monthly commission meeting might have looked strange without outspoken commissioner Leonard Bentz present Thursday. Executive Director Lynn Posey acknowledged the absence of the commissioner. 

Bentz was not confirmed by the senate Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks committee. He is caught up in a bizarre case of turkeys being baited with crickets. Bentz was cited for hunting turkeys over bait although he claimed he did not know about their presence. Law enforcement has not commented on the matter as it is an ongoing investigation. 

Sen. Neil Whaley has not responded to questions about the confirmation of Bentz. Gov. Tate Reeves has not responded to questions about what his next plans are. Posey gave a brief update Thursday. 

“Gov. Tate Reeves knows there is a vacancy and the staff has assured the commission they are working diligently on the matter,” Posey said. 

Commissioner William Mounger asked about what was needed for a quorum. The legal quorum is three. Four commissioners make up the commission although Chairman Bill Cossar’s term will expire at the end of June. It is unknown if Cossar will be reappointed.