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Virginia Man Kills 20 Eagles, Faces Light Punishment

6/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

William Custis Smith, a Virginia man, admitted to the shocking crime of killing more than 20 majestic bald eagles and hawks to safeguard waterfowl on his land. Employing illegal traps and a prohibited pesticide, he faced a mere one-day jail sentence, two years of probation, and nearly $10,000 in fines, igniting public fury over the perceived lightness of his punishment.

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Story summary

William Custis Smith, a Virginia man, admitted to the shocking crime of killing more than 20 majestic bald eagles and hawks to safeguard waterfowl on his land. Employing illegal traps and a prohibited pesticide, he faced a mere one-day jail sentence, two years of probation, and nearly $10,000 in fines, igniting public fury over the perceived lightness of his punishment.