SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. (AP) — An Upper Peninsula man is accused of illegally killing wolves, eagles and other animals after a monthslong investigation.
Kurt Duncan of Pickford is facing 125 wildlife misdemeanor charges in Chippewa County, the Department of Natural Resources said. He pleaded not guilty Wednesday in 91st District Court.
Duncan, 56, is accused of killing 18 wolves over an 18-month period and killing three bald eagles. Both are protected under state and federal laws.
The allegations also include deer, turkey, bear and bobcat.
“Duncan was using the animals for a variety of reasons, including crafts, selling or disposing of them, and stated that he was catching the animals because he could and ‘likes to do it,’” the DNR said.
It wasn’t known if Duncan had a lawyer who could comment. He faces up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine for each wolf killed, along with other possible penalties, the state said.
Charges against other people are expected, the DNR said.