Law

Ohio man cites 'conversion' to Native spirituality

Friday, February 23, 2007

A Ohio man is trying to avoid jail time by citing his "conversion" to Native American beliefs.

Steve Coulter calls himself "White Buffalo" and runs a group called "The People's Nation." He says he was raised Baptist but converted to Native spirituality. He claims Lenape and Cherokee ancestry but apparently isn't enrolled in any tribe.

Coulter was charged with violating state law after he picked up two dead hawks on the side of the road. He says he needs them to perform ceremonies.

Permits are sometimes issued for dead hawks, eagles, or owls but state law doesn't have an exception for religious beliefs. Coulter says his "conversion" should be ground for dismissal of the charges, which are punishable by six months in jail and a $1,000 fine

"There is not a great deal of difference between the Native American way and Christianity," Coulter said in court, The Marietta Times reported. "The major difference is that this is a 24/7 adventure and not just when everyone gathers for a meeting."

Get the Story:
Tribal ceremonies basis for defense: Watertown man is charged after taking dead hawk (The Marietta Times 2/23)