Larry Belitz, Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, South Dakota 2020
Hot Springs Man Sentenced for Violation of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Hot Springs, South Dakota, man was sentenced on July 10, 2020, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta L. Wollmann for a violation of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.
Larry Belitz, age 77, was convicted of knowingly possessing and selling parts of bald and golden eagles on Native American items he sold between February 2013 and February 2015 without being permitted to do so.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Belitz was sentenced to 1 year of probation, and was ordered to pay $19,900 in restitution to the U.S. Forest Service, a fine of $10,000, and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The case highlights the importance of protecting our nation's wildlife and the consequences of violating federal laws that safeguard these species.
Belitz's actions were a serious violation of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and his sentence reflects the severity of his crimes.
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service will continue to work tirelessly to protect our nation's wildlife and bring perpetrators to justice.
Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Category: Wildlife Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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