Man Sentenced for Wildlife Trafficking Scheme

Travis John Branson, a 49-year-old man from Washington, has been sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for leading a wildlife trafficking operation that resulted in the deaths of hundreds of eagles and hawks on the Flathead Indian Reservation in Montana. Prosecutors stated that Branson and his associates killed at least 118 eagles, 107 hawks, and approximately 3,600 birds over several years, exploiting high demand for bird parts in tribal ceremonies. Branson, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy and wildlife trafficking charges, was ordered to pay $777,250 in restitution for his crimes, which included bragging about his 'killing sprees' in text messages. U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich highlighted that Branson's actions not only violated federal laws protecting these birds but also demonstrated a blatant disregard for wildlife conservation. The court noted that his extensive poaching activities would likely have continued if he had not been caught. Branson will also serve three years of supervised release following his prison term.