Man sentenced to nearly four years for killing eagles on Montana reservation

A Washington state man, Travis John Branson, was sentenced to three years and 10 months in prison for killing at least 118 eagles on a Native American reservation in Montana. He must also pay over $777,000 in restitution. Branson was part of a wildlife trafficking ring that sold eagle parts for ceremonial use among tribal members. He faced charges of conspiracy and wildlife trafficking, admitting to his actions in court. A second defendant, Simon Paul, has been indicted but is currently at large. The case highlights ongoing issues with illegal eagle trafficking, despite efforts to curb it.