Rehberg staffer disputes poaching charges

Tools

By The Associated Press

Story Published: Mar 11, 2010 at 12:10 PM MDT

Story Updated: Mar 11, 2010 at 12:10 PM MDT

HELENA - A top aide to Rep. Denny Rehberg who is facing poaching charges says he is innocent and the allegations are being used to try to hurt the congressman politically.

Randy Vogel was cited last November for allegedly poaching a young bull elk last. He was charged last week, two days after being named Rehberg's state director. He is now on leave.

Vogel tells KTVQ television and the Northern Broadcasting Network that he legally shot a cow elk. Vogel says that he has been caught in a "political firestorm." He says an audio recording of Rehberg's Democratic opponent talking about the investigation is proof the allegations being used for political purposes.

McDonald says he was repeating rumors he heard in the ranching community.

Missoula

Icon
Current Temp 63.0 °F
Mostly Cloudy
Wind : Variable at 5.8 MPH (5 KT)
Pressure : 1011.9 mb
Humidity : 81 %
More Weather

Butte

Icon
Current Temp 52.0 °F
Mostly Cloudy
Wind : South at 4.6 MPH (4 KT)
Pressure : 1014.4 mb
Humidity : 93 %
More Weather

On Demand

Stock Quotes
This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

Poll

Do you think Montana's DUI laws need to be tougher?

  • Yes
  • No

AP Video