PINEDALE, Wyo. (AP) — In a notable case of animal cruelty, District Judge Richard Lavery sentenced Cody Roberts, a 44-year-old man from Wyoming, to 18 months of probation following a disturbing incident involving the assault and subsequent killing of a wolf. The offenses occurred in February 2024 in the small town of Daniel, located approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of Jackson, which is home to a population of about 150 residents.
The incident began when Roberts hit the wolf with his snowmobile. After injuring the animal, he infamously taped its mouth shut and transported it to a local bar, where he later killed it. This shocking act drew widespread condemnation, particularly after graphic images of the wolf with its mouth taped surfaced publicly, prompting scrutiny of existing wildlife laws in Wyoming.
Roberts' sentencing on Wednesday was part of a plea deal reached with prosecutors in February, allowing him to avoid a potential prison term of up to two years and a hefty fine of $5,000. Initially pleading not guilty, he changed his plea to guilty as his trial date approached in March.
As part of the sentencing, Judge Lavery imposed a $1,000 fine on Roberts and outlined several restrictions for the duration of his probation. These include a prohibition against consuming alcohol, entering bars or liquor stores, and engaging in hunting or fishing activities. During his change-of-plea hearing, Roberts expressed remorse for his actions, apologizing to both his family and the greater community.
The case sparked significant public outrage, especially considering Wyoming's lenient laws regarding the treatment of wolves and other predators. Although Roberts had initially faced a $250 fine for illegal possession of wildlife, he was subsequently indicted by a grand jury on animal cruelty charges, a rarity in Wyoming legal proceedings. This legal action reflects the growing concern over the treatment of wildlife in the state, especially following the graphic publicity surrounding Roberts' actions.
Video evidence further illustrated the gravity of the situation, showing the injured wolf lying on the floor of the bar, alive yet unable to move properly. The visual documentation of the incident contributed to the accelerating backlash against Roberts and raised questions about Wyoming's wildlife management policies.
As the case unfolded, it highlighted not only the specific actions of one man but also the broader implications of how wildlife is treated and regulated in the region. The controversy surrounding this incident has reignited discussions about the enforcement of animal cruelty laws in Wyoming and the protection of wildlife, particularly species that are often subjected to hunting and other forms of harm.
