In a shocking case of animal cruelty, two men have been indicted by a grand jury for going on a yearslong "killing spree" of federally protected eagles and selling them on the black market. Court documents have revealed disturbing details about the extent of their alleged crimes.

Simon Paul and Travis John Branson were charged last week with one count of conspiracy and 13 counts of violating the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Prosecutors have uncovered messages from Branson in which he claimed to be "committing felonies" and boasted about being "on a killing spree" to obtain eagle tail feathers for future sales.

According to the indictment, Branson would travel from Washington state to the Flathead Indian Reservation in Montana to meet up with Paul. It is alleged that Paul, who was referred to as a "shooter" and "shipper" of bald and golden eagles, would assist in killing, transporting, and shipping the birds for future sales on the black market.

The bald eagle holds significant symbolism as the national symbol of the United States, representing its ideals of freedom. The court papers underscored that the bald eagle is more than just a bird of biological interest; it is a cherished national emblem.

The indictment revealed that approximately 3,600 birds, including eagles, were killed by the defendants. These majestic creatures were then illegally sold on the black market, fetching significant sums of cash across the United States and possibly elsewhere.

The exact number of protected birds among the 3,600 killed was not specified in the indictment, and the U.S. Attorney's Office in Missoula has declined to provide further details at this time.

Branson, with a listed address in Cusick, Washington, and Paul, from Ronan, Montana, did not immediately respond to NBC News requests for comment on the matter.

It is yet another tragic example of illegal wildlife trade and the dire consequences it has on our environment. Authorities are working tirelessly to combat such crimes and ensure the protection of our nation's wildlife. The outcome of this case will be closely watched by animal rights advocates and conservationists alike as a strong message needs to be sent that such acts will not go unpunished.

The defendants will face justice in the court of law, and if found guilty, they could potentially face severe penalties for their crimes against these federally protected and esteemed creatures.