This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2012, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
More than a dozen golden eagles have been shot or poisoned around Utah, and law enforcement wants the public's help in finding their killers.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources are investigating the deaths, which have been going on for almost two years.
Between December 2010 and February 2012, four golden eagles were shot in an area of Millard County, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Several golden eagles have been shot in Carbon and Emery Counties, and in early 2012, a golden eagle was shot with a small caliber rifle from a white sport utility vehicle in Utah County.
Golden eagles also have been poisoned in other areas of the state.
The eagles are protected under two federal laws. Penalties under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act can include up to one year in jail and a $100,000 fine. Penalties for violating the Migratory Bird Treaty Act include six months to a year in jail and a fine of up to $250,000.
The agencies are offering a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to the successful prosecution of the person or people responsible. Anyone with information is asked to call Special Agent Richards with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Office at 435-734-6446, or the Utah Turn in a Poacher hot line at 800-662-3337.