Wyoming Man Sentenced for Wolf Killing Incident

Cody Roberts, a 44-year-old resident of Wyoming, has been sentenced to 18 months of probation after pleading guilty to felony animal cruelty. The case stems from an incident in February 2024 in Daniel, Wyoming, where Roberts ran over a gray wolf with his snowmobile, taped its mouth shut, and brought the wounded animal into a local bar before ultimately killing it. The sentencing took place on April 9, 2026, in Pinedale, Wyoming, where District Judge Richard Lavery imposed the probation along with a $1,000 fine and restrictions on alcohol consumption, bar entry, and hunting or fishing during the probation period.

Wyoming Man Sentenced to Probation for Snowmobile Attack on WolfWyoming man gets probation for hitting wolf with snowmobile, bringing it into barThe GuardianColorado Sun

Roberts initially pleaded not guilty but later reached a plea agreement with prosecutors, avoiding a potential prison sentence of up to two years and a $5,000 fine. During the sentencing, Judge Lavery expressed his disapproval of Roberts' actions, stating, “the charge in this case is disturbing.” The judge emphasized that while Wyoming law permits the killing of predators like wolves, it must not be done in a cruel manner. Lavery noted that the act of keeping the animal in such a state was the crux of the cruelty charge.

The GuardianColorado SunWyoming man gets probation for hitting wolf with snowmobile, bringing it into barWyoming Man Sentenced to Probation for Snowmobile Attack on Wolf

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and scrutiny of Wyoming's laws regarding the killing of wolves and other predators. Following the circulation of photos showing the wolf with its mouth taped shut and video footage of the animal barely moving, public outrage intensified. Sublette County prosecutor Clayton Melinkovich acknowledged the dissatisfaction among the public regarding the outcome, stating, “There are some who are disappointed with the result in this case.” However, he defended the sentence as appropriate given the circumstances, noting that cruelty to animals is classified as a nonviolent offense under state law.

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As part of his probation, Roberts is required to abstain from alcohol, avoid bars and liquor stores, and comply with recommendations from an addiction severity index evaluation. He must also pay court costs and a victim surcharge. Judge Lavery instructed Roberts to “lead a worthy and reputable life” and to avoid associating with individuals of negative character. The court will monitor Roberts' compliance with these conditions throughout the probation period.

Colorado Sun

The case has raised significant questions about animal cruelty and wildlife protections in Wyoming, where laws allow for broad methods of killing wolves and other predators. Critics argue that the leniency of these laws contributes to incidents of extreme animal abuse. The controversy surrounding Roberts' actions and the subsequent legal outcome has prompted calls for legislative changes to address the treatment of wildlife in the state.

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• “I have to be honest with you, the charge in this case is disturbing.” — Judge Richard Lavery

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• “I regret what I did and I apologize to my family and community.” — Cody Roberts

Wyoming Man Sentenced to Probation for Snowmobile Attack on Wolf

The case continues to resonate within the community and beyond, highlighting the ongoing tensions between wildlife conservation efforts and permissive predator laws in Wyoming.

The Guardian