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Grand Forks, N.D. (AP) A Fort Totten man was been sentenced to 10 months of work release and three years' probation for illegally killing a bald eagle on the Spirit Lake reservation.

James Robertson Sr. was sentenced Thursday in federal court. He was also ordered to serve 100 hours of community service and write a letter of apology to the Spirit Lake tribe.

The 44-year-old Robertson pleaded guilty in June to unlawful taking of a bald eagle, unlawful sale of a migratory bird and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Authorities said Robertson killed the eagle in November or December and sold it to his brother.

Information from: Grand Forks Herald, http://www.grandforksherald.com (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 09-05-09 1441CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list