Geneseo, ND – A grim reminder of the consequences for wildlife violations came as United States Attorney Drew H. Wrigley announced the sentencing of Jesse James Mertins, 40, to pay a $15,000 fine and serve five years of probation for violating the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
In an alarming incident in 2017, Mertins set 19 pole traps around an enclosure meant to protect his exotic waterfowl. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) recovered at least 26 migratory birds from beneath these traps, including ten Great horned owls, one Sharp-shinned hawk, a Cooper’s hawk, a great blue heron, a hooded merganser, seven common grackles, four American robins, and one yellow-headed blackbird – all protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
U.S. Attorney Wrigley declared, ‘This case is particularly egregious due to the large number of pole traps in such a small area, resulting in the death of more than a dozen birds of prey. We are committed to investigating and pursuing similar cases.’
Mertins was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan A. Healy, and the investigation was conducted by the USFWS.
The sentence sends a strong message about the serious nature of wildlife violations and the commitment of law enforcement to protect migratory birds.
United States Magistrate Judge Alice R. Senechal oversaw the sentencing hearing, ensuring that justice was served for these protected birds and emphasizing the importance of preserving our natural heritage.’
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Key Facts
- State: North Dakota
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Public Corruption|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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