A man from Porter, Texas, has confessed to the illegal shooting of a bald eagle, as revealed by Acting U.S. Attorney John G.E. Marck. The incident occurred in 2024 at the man’s residence in Montgomery County.
Santos Guerrero, aged 42, formally admitted his guilt on Thursday after being charged in March with the federal offense of killing a protected species. His admission came as part of a plea agreement.
Authorities were alerted to the troubling event following reports and reviewed video evidence that documented the eagle’s demise. Upon discovery, the injured bird was taken to a veterinarian, but due to the severity of its injuries, euthanasia was deemed necessary.
The investigation disclosed that the bullet inflicted significant harm, shattering the eagle’s wing. The majestic bird also suffered liver fractures, internal bleeding, and a broken leg, underscoring the brutality of the act.
Despite bald eagles no longer being classified as endangered, they remain under the protection of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. This legislation strictly prohibits the killing, possession, sale, transportation, export, or import of bald or golden eagles, whether alive or deceased, and includes any parts, nests, or eggs, without proper authorization.
Following Guerrero’s guilty plea, the court has scheduled his sentencing for July 30, as confirmed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. This case serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing need to safeguard America’s national symbol.
Guerrero could face up to a year in federal prison and a fine of up to $100,000.
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