Related Federal Cases
- Eagle Butte Sex Offender Mailed Death Threats · Kansas
- Eagle Butte Man Smokey Jandreau Copped to Meth Deals, Gun Possession · South Dakota
- Eagle Butte trio face 16 Forgery Counts, $1K Fraud Accusation · South Dakota
- Daryl Eagle Horse Indicted for Failure to Appear in SD Court · South Dakota
- Eagle Butte Man Indicted on Meth, Gun Charges · South Dakota
Bald Eagle Killer on the Loose
A disturbing case of wildlife crime has come to light in South Dakota, as a Howes man has been charged with the unlawful taking of a bald eagle. 42-year-old Cody M. Weyer is facing a federal offense, alleged to have taken place between January 1, 2014, and January 21, 2014.
According to the charges, Weyer knowingly killed a bald eagle without permission to do so. The maximum penalty upon conviction is one year of imprisonment and/or a $100,000 fine, one year of supervised release and an additional year of supervised release upon revocation, and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Information alleges that Weyer killed the bald eagle, a protected species, without justification or permission. The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuting the case.
Weyer appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on May 2, 2014, and pled not guilty to the charge. The charge is merely an accusation and Weyer is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Weyer was released on bond pending trial, which has been set for July 8, 2014. The case highlights the importance of protecting our nation’s wildlife and the severe consequences for those who choose to harm them.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services will continue to investigate and prosecute those responsible for wildlife crimes, ensuring justice is served for the victims and their families.
We will continue to monitor this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.
Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Category: Wildlife Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
