The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is hoping the public can help identify those responsible for the shooting deaths of two wild burros, west of Phoenix, Ariz.

The Wild Free-Roaming Horse and Burro Act of 1971 protects wild burros and places them under the BLM’s jurisdiction.

BLM Spokesperson Pamela Mathis said federal officers received a call that two mature wild burros were found dead of apparent gunshot wounds on Jan. 26. Officers believe the shooting took place in the Lake Pleasant Herd Management Area located northwest of Phoenix, Mathis said.

If convicted, those responsible could face a fine up to $2,000 and/or up to one year in prison for each offense, Mathis said