A man from Washington state, Eagle Trafficking Case accused of aiding in the killing of numerous birds, admitted guilt in federal court on Wednesday for shooting eagles on a Native American reservation in Montana and selling their feathers and body parts on the illicit market.
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Eagle Trafficking Case
Travis John Branson pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy, wildlife trafficking, and two counts of trafficking protected bald and golden eagles as part of a plea agreement made last month with federal prosecutors.
The case highlights the persistence of an illegal trade in eagle feathers despite law enforcement efforts in the 2010s that resulted in numerous criminal indictments across the Western and Midwestern United States. Eagle feathers and parts are in high demand for use in Native American ceremonies and powwows.
According to court documents, Branson admitted to engaging in a “killing spree” in January 2021 to obtain eagle tails. Together with another defendant, Simon Paul, approximately 3,600 birds, including eagles, were killed on the Flathead reservation and elsewhere, as stated in a December indictment.
While federal authorities have not revealed the methods used to kill most of the birds or where the killings occurred, Branson was found in possession of golden eagle feathers and feet after being stopped by law enforcement on the reservation. Photos and text messages retrieved from multiple seized phones indicated the widespread nature of the illegal activity.
During the court hearing, Branson acknowledged his involvement in conspiring to illegally take and sell migratory birds. He also disclosed his connection to the co-defendant and his upbringing in the Polson area.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 31 before U.S. District Judge Dana Christensen. Branson, who was not detained pending sentencing, is expected to pay restitution for damages, with tribal officials hoping for some compensation to the Flathead reservation, where the crimes occurred.
The plea deal also involves the dismissal of additional trafficking charges and a recommendation for a reduced sentence. Branson could face up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for conspiracy, the most serious charge.
This case follows a major U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service investigation dubbed “Operation Dakota Flyer,” which resulted in charges against 35 individuals and the recovery of numerous protected birds. Despite legal avenues for Native American tribes to obtain eagle parts, such as permits and repositories, demand continues to drive the black market for these items.
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