Man Agrees to Plead Guilty in Major Wildlife Trafficking Case

The case involves the illegal killing and sale of over 3,600 birds, including bald eagles, on a Montana reservation.

Travis John Branson has agreed to plead guilty to charges related to the illegal killing and trafficking of over 3,600 birds, including protected bald and golden eagles, in Montana.
The plea deal includes charges of conspiracy, wildlife trafficking, and two counts of unlawful trafficking of eagles, with Branson facing up to 12 years in prison.
Simon Paul, Branson's alleged accomplice, remains at large after failing to appear for a court date in January.
The illegal activities took place primarily on the Flathead Indian Reservation, with the birds being sold on the black market for significant sums.
Feathers and other parts of the eagles are highly valued among many Native American tribes for use in sacred ceremonies and during powwows.