Sheridan Resident Cited for Killing Bald Eagle

The incident south of Independence, Oregon could cost the suspect a $6,250 fine.

The eagle was located by police and recovered in the area that had been described to them by a witness Photo courtesy: Oregon State Police

(INDEPENDENCE, Ore.) - An Oregon State Police Fish & Wildlife Division investigation into the unlawfully killing of a bald eagle south of Independence last Friday led to the identification and citing of a 19-year old suspect.

OSP Fish & Wildlife Division Troopers Richard Young and Doug Shugart say they received information Sunday, that a bald eagle had been shot and killed two days earler, in the area of the Willamette River south of Independence.

The investigation indicated three persons had been duck hunting when a bald eagle flew over the top of the group and was allegedly shot by 19-year old Dustin Millsap of Sheridan.

Police say that after killing the eagle, Millsap hid it behind a tree.

The troopers found the concealed dead eagle today near where it had reportedly been shot. Millsap was contacted and subsequently cited to appear for Unlawful Taking Protected Species to wit: Bald Eagle, a class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine up to $6,250.

The shotgun allegedly used to kill the bald eagle, along with several rounds of ammunition were seized as evidence.
Source: Oregon State Police