i too own land near stateland. I don't let people hunt my land and I toss ones out that just come on the property. HOWEVER, I always grant permission to those who ask to retrieve a deer. I even go and help.

In your case you tried to do the right thing and that didn't pan out. If you didn't have respect for the land owner or the animal you wouldn't be on here asking. that said, you're obviously a stand up guy. I'd go in at night and get your deer.