Wyoming Man Sentenced for Animal Cruelty After Wolf Incident

Cody Roberts, a 44-year-old man from Wyoming, has been sentenced to 18 months of probation for animal cruelty after hitting a wolf with his snowmobile and subsequently bringing the injured animal into a bar. The incident occurred on February 29, 2024, in Daniel, Wyoming, where Roberts taped the wolf's mouth shut before displaying it at the Green River Bar and later killing it. District Judge Richard Lavery imposed the sentence, which also includes a $1,450 fine and conditions prohibiting alcohol consumption and hunting during the probation period.

Wyoming man gets probation for hitting wolf with snowmobile, bringing it into barWyofile

Roberts initially pleaded not guilty but later accepted a plea deal, which allowed him to avoid a potential two-year prison sentence and a $5,000 fine. During the sentencing, Judge Lavery described Roberts' actions as "disturbing" and emphasized that while Wyoming law permits the killing of predators, it must not be done in a cruel manner. The judge noted that the manner in which Roberts treated the wolf constituted the essence of the crime.

WyofileWyoming man gets probation for hitting wolf with snowmobile, bringing it into bar

The case has sparked significant public outrage, particularly after images of Roberts with the muzzled wolf circulated online. This led to calls for boycotts of Wyoming tourism and demands for legislative reform regarding wildlife treatment. Despite this, the Wyoming Legislature did not pass a law to prohibit the use of snowmobiles for such actions. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department had previously fined Roberts $250 for illegal possession of wildlife but did not pursue animal cruelty charges, citing that such laws do not apply to predators.

WyofileWyoming man gets probation for hitting wolf with snowmobile, bringing it into bar

Animal rights organizations, including Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy, have expressed disappointment with the sentence, advocating for stricter penalties for animal cruelty. They have urged Congress to pass the SAW Act, aimed at enhancing federal protections against the use of motorized vehicles to harm wildlife. Wayne Pacelle, president of the two organizations, stated, “While we would have preferred prison time for Roberts, we are grateful to [the] Sublette County prosecutor and the judge for securing a felony conviction for cruelty to animals in this case.”

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Judge Lavery highlighted the importance of humane treatment of wildlife, stating, “We have an obligation to allow that to occur and not be cruel.” Sublette County Prosecuting Attorney Clayton Melinkovich supported the plea agreement, emphasizing the need for rehabilitation and public education regarding animal welfare.

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While the incident has drawn widespread condemnation, there remains a divide among local residents regarding the appropriateness of the sentence. Some argue that the punishment is insufficient, while others believe it reflects the legal framework governing wildlife in Wyoming.

Wyoming man gets probation for hitting wolf with snowmobile, bringing it into bar

Roberts is required to comply with the terms of his probation, which includes abstaining from alcohol and avoiding bars or liquor stores. The case continues to raise questions about wildlife protection laws in Wyoming and the potential for future legislative changes.

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