A Waubay man has been sentenced for his role in a string of wildlife violations in Day County. Kevin Jorgenson, 54, was sentenced to 2 years of probation with 8 months of home confinement, $15,000 in restitution, and a $45 assessment to the Victim Assistance Fund.

Jorgenson was convicted of Unlawful Possession of Migratory Birds, Unlawful Possession of Endangered Species, and Unlawful Taxidermy Services. The offenses were committed between 2007 and 2011, during which time Jorgenson received and possessed 535 migratory birds, as well as a Western Great Lakes Gray Wolf, for taxidermy purposes.

The items in question were not properly tagged as required by both federal and state law. Furthermore, Jorgenson did not have the proper taxidermy licenses at the time. The investigation was conducted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and South Dakota Game Fish and Parks.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meghan N. Dilges. Jorgenson was charged with the above offenses on April 23, 2012, and pled guilty on August 24, 2012. He was sentenced on January 3, 2013, by United States District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

According to court documents, Jorgenson’s actions were a flagrant disregard for the law and a threat to the conservation of migratory birds and endangered species. The sentence handed down by Judge Kornmann reflects the severity of Jorgenson’s crimes and the need for accountability in such cases.

The case serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the law and protecting our natural resources. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this story and provide updates as more information becomes available.

Kevin Jorgenson’s sentence marks the end of a long and complex case. The man has been released from custody, but will be subject to the terms of his probation and home confinement.

The Grimy Times would like to thank the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, the South Dakota Game Fish and Parks, and Assistant United States Attorney Meghan N. Dilges for their tireless efforts in bringing this case to justice.