Malheur refuge occupier gets two years probation
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) – A North Carolina man who pleaded guilty to conspiracy in the takeover of an Oregon wildlife refuge has been sentenced to two years on probation.
Jason Blomgren traveled to Oregon in January 2016 to perform guard duty during the occupation of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Gabriel described him as a minor player who spent 15 days on the refuge.
U.S. District Judge Robert Jones ordered Blomgren to pay $3,000 restitution, but expressed doubt that he’ll come up with the money. He said Blomgren -with $3.83 to his name – is “about as broke as anyone I’ve seen.”
Blomgren said at Monday’s hearing in Portland that he’s ready to move forward with his life.