Man accused of selling costumes containing feathers of protected birds

A man who works American-Indian powwow events was named Monday in a federal indictment on charges of violating several acts related to selling costumes that contain the feathers of federally protected birds.

Terry Fiddler, who was arrested April 29 in Rapid City, S.D., appeared in federal court late Monday afternoon, according to a statement from U.S. Attorney Daniel Bogden. Fiddler pleaded not guilty and remained free on bond. His trial was set for August.

Fiddler, 52, was indicted on one count of selling a dance bustle, described as an "arrangement of feathers worn on the body," in violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act; one count of selling a dance bustle in violation of the Lacey Act; one count of selling a war bonnet in violation of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act; and one count of selling a war bonnet in violation of the Lacey Act.

The first three crimes, said Bogden, are misdemeanors that carry penalties up to 12 months in jail and a $100,000 fine. The fourth count is a felony that calls for five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

The indictment alleges Fiddler sold the bustle containing eagle and hawk feathers on Jan. 24, 2008. He is accused of selling the war bonnet containing eagle and hawk feathers on Feb. 28, 2008. In both instances, police allege Fiddler sold the items to an undercover agent with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Las Vegas.