Up North Progressive

A 56-year-old man in Chippewa County was arraigned on May 20, 2020 in the 91st District Court with 125 misdemeanor charges. Kurt Johnston Duncan faces fines and jail time for illegally killing wildlife, including wolves and bald eagles.

Animals illegally killed include 18 wolves and two bald eagles. Wolves are protected in Michigan through the federal endangered species list. Bald eagles are protected by state law and the federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Duncan’s arraignment included multiple poaching charges for deer, turkey, bear, and bobcat.

Duncan illegally killed the animals for making and selling crafts. He told the judge he killed so many animals because he could and he “likes to do it.” He also illegally hunted animals just to kill and dispose of them.

Chief Gary Hagler of the DNR Law Enforcement Division shared the process of how they investigated Duncan’s crimes.

“Investigations like this require a long-term commitment from everyone involved. I want to thank the prosecutors in this case who worked with our officers. We are happy with the outcome and hope this case sets an example to prevent future natural resource crimes.”

With collecting and providing evidence to Duncan’s case, DNR officers identified more suspects will face charges in the future.

If convicted, Duncan will face penalties of:

• Up to 90 days in jail and $1,000 fine for each wolf.
• Up to 90 days in jail and $1,000 fine for each eagle.
• Restitution of $1,500 per eagle and $500 per wolf.
• Up to 90 days in jail and $500 for each of the other wildlife crimes.

Duncan is free on a $500 bond. His bond includes no hunting or fishing, possess a firearm or other dangerous weapon, or have contact with any of his co-defendants.