United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell has announced the sentencing of Joe Hofer, a resident of Volga, South Dakota, for violating the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. The sentencing was conducted by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange at the U.S. District Court on January 13, 2025.

Hofer, aged 52, received a sentence that includes one year of federal probation and a $1,200 fine. Additionally, he is required to pay a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The case against Hofer began with an indictment from a federal grand jury in July 2024. He entered a guilty plea on October 4, 2024.

As the Farm Boss for the Cambridge Hutterian Brethren (CHB) in Lake County, South Dakota, Hofer used farm equipment belonging to CHB in November 2023 to remove trees on CHB property. During this process, he destroyed an active eagle nest without obtaining the necessary permit as required by federal law.

The investigation was carried out by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service alongside the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges led the prosecution.