Man Admits Shooting Ted Turner’s Buffalo

A Three Forks man has pleaded guilty to shooting two of media mogul Ted Turner’s buffalo during a drunken outing last fall.

James Michael Evenson, 23, entered the plea Wednesday under an agreement calling for him to receive a three-year deferred sentence. He also must pay Turner $7,000 restitution.

District Judge Michael Salvagni will decide whether to accept the recommended punishment before Evenson’s sentencing Sept. 17. Evenson could face a 10-year prison sentence.

Police said Evenson told them he shot the animals after drinking “a few too many” with friends the night of Nov. 30.

Turner raises buffalo on his Flying D Ranch near Bozeman. His herd now numbers about 3,000.