Link to yesterday’s thread below. The citation was dismissed after the publicity. Before then, F&WS sent a VA trooper with the agent to her home to issue the citation, which she did not sign. After that, a warrant was issued for her to appear in court. BTW, UPI has it wrong: According to the original story, the agency involved was the US Fish and Wildlife Service, not the VA Dept. of Game and Inland Fisheries.
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/2757566/posts
Synopsis (from Gannett restricted site):
Eleven-year old girl saves baby woodpecker from being eaten by family cat at Dad’s house. Mother puts woodpecker in cage to take to her home to make sure it’s o.k. On way home, brought into store out of sun. Female US Fish and Wildlife agent shopping there shows badge, confronts mother about violation of migratory bird act and takes name. Mother releases bird when she arrives home and notifies F&WS.
Two weeks later agent shows up with VA state trooper at home to issue citation. Mother refuses to sign and is issued court warrant.
Update: According to the website, F&WS this p.m. now says its all a big mistake and citation should never have been issued and is sending an apology.
Your federal government at work.