Religious Claim in Bald Eagle Killing Doesn't Fly

Native American killed protected bird for Sun Dance ceremony, now in plea bargain
By Mat Probasco,  Newser Staff
Posted Sep 21, 2009 3:51 AM CDT
Religious Claim in Bald Eagle Killing Doesn't Fly
An American bald eagle flies over its nest at the Martin State Airport in Middle River, Md.   (AP Photo/Rob Carr, File)

When Winslow Friday shot a bald eagle out of a tree in a Wyoming Indian reservation four years ago, he was hoping to provide his cousin with a headdress for an upcoming Sun Dance. What he got were federal charges for killing the protected bird. It's a law his northern Arapaho tribe has argued in court violates American Indians' religious rights, reports the Los Angeles Times.

A federal judge sided with Friday, but an appeals court overturned the ruling, saying Friday could have applied for a permit or for a dead bird kept in a repository for such ceremonies. The Supreme Court has refused to hear Friday's case, so he's now preparing for a plea deal with prosecutors that will avoid a trial.
(Read more bald eagle stories.)

We use cookies. By Clicking "OK" or any content on this site, you agree to allow cookies to be placed. Read more in our privacy policy.
Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X