Montana Duo Accused of Killing 3,600 Eagles in Six-Year Poaching Spree

Simon Paul and Travis John Branson allegedly sold the body parts on the black market, with their arraignment set for January 8, 2024.

Simon Paul and Travis John Branson have been accused of killing approximately 3,600 birds, including federally protected golden and bald eagles, over a six-year period from 2015 to 2021.
The duo allegedly sold the body parts of the eagles on the black market, with Branson even bragging about being 'on a killing spree' in messages to potential buyers.
The illegal activities were carried out in Lake County, Montana, within the Flathead Indian Reservation, where Paul acted as the 'shooter' and 'shipper' of the operation, while Branson traveled from Washington state to shoot the birds.
Branson and Paul face charges of one count of conspiracy and one count of trafficking wildlife, with additional counts of unlawful trafficking of bald and golden eagles. If convicted, Branson could face up to 18 years in prison and Paul up to 15 years.
Their arraignment is scheduled for January 8, 2024.