MT: Judge to sentence family for illegal hunting scheme

Judge poised to sentence Saco-area ranch family for illegal hunting scheme

August 18, 2009

BILLINGS - A Saco-area ranch family snared in an illegal hunting scheme is getting ready to appear in federal court in Billings for sentencing.

U.S. District Judge Jack Shanstrom is expected to sentence Wednesday 74-year-old Leo Bergtoll, his 68-year-old wife Anna Lou Bergtoll and the couple's 44-year-old son, Darrel Bergtoll.

All three pleaded guilty earlier this year to federal charges stemming from an investigation into illegal hunting on or near the family's Frenchman Valley ranch.

Prosecutors are recommending fines, probation and an unusual form of community service for the husband and wife, but prison time for their son.

Prosecutors say The Bergtolls worked with a longtime associate to recruit hunters in Southern states and run an outfitting business on their cattle ranch.

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