jbulger@journalnet.com

POCATELLO - The last of three men involved in the illegal possession and wasting of a cow moose in October 2007 was sentenced Tuesday.

Brandon Milsted, 22, of Chubbuck, told Sixth District Judge Peter D. McDermott that he took one shot at the animal but said he did not hit the moose. Milsted termed his actions as "stupid," but McDermott had a different take on the incident.

"You're a poacher," McDermott said.

"I don't consider myself a poacher," Milsted said.

"You didn't have a permit. What do you consider yourself?" McDermott said.

Milsted's attorney, Keith Zollinger, admitted that Milsted's actions in taking the first shot at the moose had set events in motion, resulting in harsher terms in the plea agreement than those afforded the other men involved in the incident. The state amended the felony counts to misdemeanors and agreed to recommend Milsted receive a four-year suspension of hunting and fishing privileges.

In pronouncing sentence, McDermott told Milsted that he had to consider deterrence of similar conduct. McDermott chose to tag Milsted with a six-year suspension and required the man to spend 10 days in jail. The remainder of his six-month sentences on both counts was suspended.

Christopher Henry, 21, and Matthew Hartman, 21, both of Pocatello, were previously sentenced for their part in the incident. Neither received jail time for their misdemeanor convictions.