Bald Eagle charges filed against 4 Okla. men

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – Federal prosecutors say four men have been charged with unlawful possession, transport and sale of a bald eagle carcass and feathers in violation of federal law.

U.S. Attorney Sanford Coats announced the charges on Wednesday against 50-year-old William Creepingbear, 38-year-old Tuhtaka Wilson, and 37-year-old Michael Yount, all of Norman, and 34-year-old Brandon Roberts of Oklahoma City. Court records do not indicate if any of the men have retained an attorney.

Federal prosecutors allege Wilson stole a bald eagle carcass from his relatives, who had obtained a federal permit for the bird, and sold it to Creepingbear.

Yount and Roberts also are charged with illegally possessing, transporting and selling a bald eagle carcass or feathers.

Possession of bald eagle feathers are prohibited, except for Native Americans who receive a special permit.