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Montana Guard Pilot Enters No-Contest Plea in Black Hawk Trespass Case

The case prompted updated Guard guidance that prohibits collecting antlers during official flights.

Overview

  • Deni Lynn Draper pleaded no contest to misdemeanor trespass for landing a UH-60 on a private ranch to retrieve elk antlers.
  • Judge Jessie Connolly accepted the plea, imposed a $500 fine plus an $85 surcharge, and deferred sentencing for six months.
  • The court noted service members are held to a higher standard, and Draper’s record could be cleared if no new charges are filed by July.
  • Draper forfeited any claim to the recovered antlers, which remain with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.
  • Co-defendants Michael Vincent Bray and Perry Wray Woodland still face trespass charges, with jury confirmation hearings set for Jan. 14.